Polio (poliomyelitis) is an infectious disease primarily caused by the “poliovirus” entering through the mouth, which attacks the nerve cells in the spinal cord. While many infections are asymptomatic or result in minor symptoms such as fever, sore throat, headache, and vomiting, **approximately 1 in 200 infections lead to lifelong “paralysis”** of the limbs. If the paralysis progresses, it can lead to respiratory failure and death. Although the disease is most common in children under 5 years old, non-immune adults are also at risk of infection and severe illness, so extreme caution is required before traveling to endemic areas.

The most effective way to prevent polio is through vaccination with the Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine (IPV). Currently, this highly safe inactivated vaccine is the primary choice in many countries.


Specifically, for Hajj and Umrah travel to Saudi Arabia, visitors arriving from certain countries or regions are required to present a vaccination certificate. Travelers coming from areas with outbreaks of either wild poliovirus or vaccine-derived poliovirus must strictly verify the entry requirements.

For adults traveling to endemic areas, a single booster dose is recommended regardless of past vaccination history.


Validity period: International recommendations generally require a vaccination certificate issued within the last 12 months for entry from endemic regions.


Preparation period: Considering the time required for antibodies to develop, vaccination should be administered at least 4 weeks before departure.