Karachi Airport Enforces Mandatory Vaccination for Umrah Pilgrims

Karachi's Jinnah International Airport has instituted mandatory vaccination policies for Umrah pilgrims and overseas tourists, following the termination of a provisional exemption on October 10. The International Traveller Vaccination Centre, managed by Border Health Services near Star Gate, offers vaccination services 24/7. Medical professionals administer polio, meningitis, and other vaccines as per travelers' destinations and itineraries.

Umrah pilgrims must receive polio and meningitis vaccinations, while visitors heading to countries with yellow fever prerequisites must also get the corresponding vaccine. Dr. Ghulam Murtaza Shah, a representative of Border Health, informed Express News that the authorities had arranged vaccine stocks and vaccination certificates to assist global visitors.

The meningitis vaccine costs Rs. 2,785, while the influenza vaccine costs Rs. 1,720. The polio vaccine is provided free of charge. Border Health Services has instructed Pakistani passport holders to adhere to vaccination requirements for their destinations and transit points prior to departure. Officials have also cautioned tourists to confirm their vaccination certificates to prevent issues during international travel.