Hajj

Hajj and Health Issues

What is Hajj?

Hajj is a pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia. It is currently the largest annual pilgrimage in the world and is the fifth pillar of Islam, an obligation that must be carried out at least once in a lifetime by every able-bodied Muslim who can afford to do so. The Hajj is a demonstration of the solidarity of the Muslim people, and their submission to Allah (God).

Muslim pilgrims generally travel to Hajj in groups as an expression of unity. Some airlines have special packages for Muslims going to Mecca. Ships also take pilgrims to Mecca so they can perform Hajj.

When is Hajj?

The exact dates of Islamic holidays change from year to year, due to the nature of the Islamic lunar calendar. Estimates are based on expected visibility of the hilal, or the waxing crescent moon following a new moon.

Immunization requirements for Hajj

Immunization requirements vary from year to year. Please check CDC and Saudi Arabia Ministry of Health websites for current requirements.