A vaccine against meningitis is no longer mandatory for Moroccans heading to Umrah this year, according to a note published Friday by the Moroccan Health Ministry. The decision comes as health authorities in Saudi Arabia have suspended the mandatory requirement for proof of meningitis vaccination for Umrah pilgrims. Despite this announcement, the Moroccan Health Ministry «recommends that Umrah pilgrims still get vaccinated». This decision follows viral videos this week showing crowds of Umrah pilgrims in Morocco standing for hours to get the vaccine before departing for Umrah. Many questioned the availability of the vaccines, which were previously mandatory for travel to Saudi Arabia. In response, the Health Ministry stated yesterday that it has taken all necessary measures to secure an adequate supply of meningitis vaccines. The Ministry emphasizes that the vaccine is available at accredited health centers across various regions and provinces, ensuring easy access for those who wish to receive it. A list of these centers can be found on the Ministry of Health and Social Protection's website.
