Vaccines have been proved to be an effective way to protect individuals from infections such as diseases like Polio, and have been used in many countries around the world for many years. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), vaccines are “the safest and most cost-effective way to prevent disease and death in all age groups”. This is true for Saudi Arabia, where vaccines are mandatory for all people, citizens and expats, entering the country.
The Saudi Kingdom adopts the policies of the WHO in this case and encourages a high rate of vaccination by making it compulsory upon arrival into the Kingdom. The Mandatory Vaccines plan of Saudi Arabia include in the arrival and residence procedure for all people as well as those already in the country. This applies to all non-Saudis and those living in the Kingdom.
The Mandatory Vaccines list for Saudi Arabia includes Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Varicella, Hepatitis A, Influenza, Meningitis and Polio. The requirement for some of these vaccine is based upon the schedule of the particular person, age, occupational risk and health history which is then assessed by the authorized physician.
The vaccination in Saudi Arabia does not just focus on the prevention of diseases, but it is also important because it is a legal requirement for travelers. Visitors must receive the vaccinations before they can enter the country. All travelers who wish to gain entry into the country must also have valid health certificates which has all the necessary stamps on them that have been issued by the authorized health provider.
It is also important to note that, from the third trimester of a pregnancy, Saudi Arabia requires all pregnant women to obtain certain vaccines, such as the tetanus, pertussis, diphtheria and measles vaccines. Moreover, it should be emphasized that all travelers should check with their primary healthcare provider before travelling to Saudi Arabia, to determine which vaccines they need to receive.
Overall, vaccinations can have a very positive effect on the health of individuals, groups and communities, and the WHO recommends that people in all countries keep their vaccines up to date as per the current prevailing condition and risk levels.
Management of Vaccine Requirements
For travelers to Saudi Arabia, it is highly recommended that they plan in advance and ascertain all relevant information regarding the necessary vaccinations, as stipulated by the Saudi Kingdom. This includes details such as the current prevailing condition and level of disease risk in the country, the timing of the different vaccines, and the cost, availability and the location of the country’s vaccination centers. All of this is vital for travelers to be aware of, since it will help them to have detailed knowledge of the process, as well as to ensure that they receive the necessary vaccines.
In addition, it is also important to be aware that some of the vaccines that are required for entry into Saudi Arabia may not be available in their native country. Therefore, travelers must check if the vaccines can be obtained from their originating country prior to entering Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, it is highly recommended that individuals and families get vaccinated with the recommended vaccines at least many weeks before travelling, in order to obtain the most benefit.
Other Vaccine Related Requirements
In addition, countries like Saudi Arabia may have additional requirements relating to travel vaccinations, such as the need for visitors to carry a health card. Most people entering Saudi Arabia are generally required to have a long-term, multi-entry visa, which will require individuals to obtain a medical examination certificate and a stamped health card that will be required during the visa application and at the port of entry in Saudi Arabia. This health card will include information such as the date of the examination, the name of the doctor who issued it, and the pertinent vaccinations that have been achieved.
Finally, travelers should also be aware that, if their vaccination record is incomplete, they may be refused entry into the country, or be deported to their originating country. Therefore, it is highly recommended that travelers consult with their healthcare provider to ensure that their vaccinations are up to date before entering into Saudi Arabia.
Vaccine Accessibility and Cost
In terms of the accessibility of vaccines in Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom has several major hospitals, provinces and universities that provide a range of health services, including immunization. Some of the private hospitals, clinics and pharmacies that are authorized to provide vaccinations may charge different prices, depending on the particular vaccine and the dose required.
Furthermore, the costs of the different vaccines may vary depending on the particular facilities. For example, in some cases, vaccines can be obtained for free at certain hospitals and health centers, while other times, they may need to be purchased directly from pharmacies. In either case, it is important to research in advance in order to ensure that the costs, availability and location of the particular vaccines being sought after can be secured.
Vaccination Guidelines For Expats
It is also important to note that the expats living in Saudi Arabia, who are not nationals of the kingdom, must also be vaccinated according to the guidelines that are set by the WHO. However, before the required vaccines can be administered, there are certain processes that must be undertaken in order for the vaccination to be officially recorded. For example, in most cases, individuals will need to present their residence documents and their valid health card in order to receive the necessary vaccinations.
In addition, the Ministry of Health will generally only accept certificates from authorized clinics, hospitals and pharmacies. Therefore, it is advisable for expats to consult with their employer or sponsor and to take note of the available facilities within the Kingdom in order to ensure that the correct procedure is followed.
Vaccinations and Immigration Policies
Immigration policies should also be considered when it comes to ensuring that the vaccination requirements are met, as the process may differ depending on the country of origin and the country of destination. For instance, in Saudi Arabia, the vaccinations listed in the Mandatory Vaccines Plan must be taken by people who wish to gain entry into the Saudi Kingdom. These may also need to be acquired from the country of origin prior to entering Saudi Arabia, which is something that must be researched ahead of time.
Furthermore, it is important to note that, in Saudi Arabia, the vaccination requirements for foreign nationals and expats may vary depending on their nationality. This includes details such as the age of the individuals, the health risk of certain occupations, the nature of the medical examination certificate, and the number of approved vaccinations that will be required in the country.
Finally, it is important to consider the importance of vaccinations and the role that they play in protecting the individual and the community from diseases. It is crucial that travelers, expats and citizens of Saudi Arabia are aware of the Mandatory Vaccination Plan and the relevant requirements that must be met in order to gain entry into the Kingdom. Furthermore, it is essential to remember to plan in advance and to consult with healthcare providers in order to obtain the correct and most up-to-date information on the different vaccines.
