Pakistan Suspends Meningitis and Influenza Vaccinations for Umrah Travellers at Karachi Dispensary Country: Pakistan City: Karachi Category: Hajj & Umrah | South Asia | Health Event Date: November 7, 2026 Publication Date: November 8, 2026 Pakistan has suspended meningitis and influenza vaccination services for Umrah pilgrims and other Saudi Arabia-bound passengers at a government dispensary near Karachi Airport, according to local media reports. The Express Tribune reported on November 8 that Border Health Services (BHS) stopped administering the vaccines at the facility on Saturday, November 7. Sources cited by the newspaper said verbal instructions to suspend the service had reportedly been issued a day earlier. NADRA Vaccination Payments Affected Passengers who had already paid for their vaccinations through the NADRA Pak ID application continued receiving doses until Friday, November 6, according to the reports. The Thursday Times separately reported on November 8 that NADRA had temporarily suspended registration and fee collection for meningitis and influenza vaccinations through its Pak ID application and e-Sahulat outlets. Travellers have been advised to contact Border Health Services directly for updated guidance. Procurement Investigation Behind Suspension The suspension comes amid an investigation into the procurement arrangements for vaccines supplied to international travellers, including Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. The News previously reported on October 22 that a Prime Minister-led inquiry committee had recommended cancelling the existing procurement process and initiating a fresh tender after identifying concerns regarding procurement requirements and financial arrangements. Express Urdu also reported on November 7 that the vaccine procurement tender had been cancelled. What Umrah Pilgrims Should Know The suspension of vaccination services at the Karachi dispensary does not automatically cancel Saudi Arabia's vaccination entry requirements. Pilgrims should confirm alternative vaccination arrangements, certificate registration procedures and travel requirements with Border Health Services, their airlines and authorised Umrah travel operators before departure. Saudi Arabia's meningococcal vaccination requirements remain an important consideration for international pilgrims. Islam Global News – South Asia Desk