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Mecca pilgrims must provide valid flu certificates to obtain visa

Muslims planning to take part in the hajj and umrah pilgrimages to Mecca must provide a valid certificate of vaccination against seasonal flu before applying for a visa, the World Health Organization and Saudi Arabian government have said.

Under the new rules, travellers will also need a certificate to prove they have been vaccinated against swine flu – if a vaccination is available. Both certificates must be at least two weeks old.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Ministry of Foreign Affairs is also recommending that the elderly, people with chronic diseases, children and pregnant women should postpone their hajj and umrah pilgrimages this year as a safety precaution.

The hajj is due to take place from November 25-29. The non-mandatory lesser pilgrimage umrah can be taken at any time of the year

A full list of health procedures for visitors to Mecca can be found at the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia’s website.

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