Islamabad: The vaccination process for pilgrims is actively underway at Haji Camps nationwide, ensuring that those planning to embark on their spiritual journey are adequately protected against various diseases.

According to Radio Pakistan, Director Hajj Islamabad, Qazi Sami-ur-Rehman, revealed in an interview that over 1,200 individuals are being vaccinated daily against polio, flu, and meningitis. Additionally, those over the age of sixty-five are receiving vaccinations against COVID-19. This comprehensive vaccination drive, which began last Monday in the federal capital, will continue until the departure of the final flight.

Qazi Sami-ur-Rehman highlighted the importance of completing the vaccination process at least ten days prior to the flight, following the guidelines set by Saudi Arabia. He noted that approximately 29,000 intending pilgrims are scheduled to depart from Islamabad on one hundred flights. He also advised pilgrims to visit the Haji camp two days before their flight to collect essential documents, including visas and tickets.

The Director urged all pilgrims to adhere strictly to Saudi laws during their stay in the holy land. Dr. Ali Hussain Shakir, Incharge of the Haji Camp Dispensary, assured that the vaccinations are safe and come with no side effects, emphasizing their necessity as per Saudi instructions. He added that the vaccinations protect pilgrims from several respiratory infections, pneumonia, and meningitis.

Intending pilgrims who received their vaccinations expressed satisfaction with the arrangements made by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, describing the process as smooth and hassle-free.