Riyadh, Feb. 19 -- Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Health (MoH) has advised people planning to perform Umrah during the holy month of Ramzan to receive the meningitis vaccine at least 10 days before travelling.

The advisory comes as part of efforts to prevent the spread of infectious diseases during the pilgrimage season.

In a post on X, the ministry said crowded environments at the holy sites increase the risk of transmission of meningitis, a serious bacterial infection that spreads through respiratory droplets and can cause severe complications.

The ministry said the vaccine offers protection for up to five years and helps safeguard both pilgrims and the wider community. Travellers were urged to check their vaccination records and ensure ...