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Abstract
The
annual Hajj pilgrimage to
Mecca brings together millions
of individuals from diverse
geographic regions, presenting
significant public health
challenges, particularly concerning
the transmissionof infectious
diseases. This article highlights
the critical importance of
pneumococcal vaccination as
a preventive measure during
Hajj. Given the heightened
risk of respiratory infections
in such a densely populated
and international gathering,
the authors advocate for making
pneumococcal vaccination compulsory
for all pilgrims. The article
discusses the public health
benefits of widespread vaccination,
including the reduction in
cases of pneumonia, meningitis,
and sepsis caused by Streptococcus
pneumoniae. It also examines
potential barriers to
implementing
compulsory vaccination policies,
such as logistical challenges,
vaccine hesitancy, and the
need for culturally sensitive
approaches. The authors emphasize
the necessity of collaboration
among health authorities,
religious leaders, and pilgrims
to ensure successful policy
implementation and enhance
health outcomes during the
pilgrimage.
Keywords:
Hajj pilgrimage, Pneumococcal
Vaccination, policy changes
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