FACTORS INFLUENCING COMPLIANCE WITH HEALTH REQUIREMENTS AMONG TRAVELERS COMING FOR UMRAH AT PRINCE MOHAMMED BIN ABDULAZIZ INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, MEDINA, SAUDI ARABIA, 2023.

Abstract

Background: Saudi Arabia has recently witnessed an unprecedented increase in international visitors to the country. As a result, the risk of transmission of infectious diseases has also risen, especially during the Hajj and Umrah seasons. Despite the implementation of health measures for Umrah/Hajj travellers, concerns persist regarding visitor adherence to vaccination requirements. Aim: This study was conducted to explore the factors influencing visitors' compliance with Umrah health requirements during the 2023 Umrah season. Methods: A cross-sectional survey study was carried out among Umrah visitors at Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport from October 2023 to January 2024. Results: A total of 400 visitors had completed the survey, 70.25% of whom were male. A total of 49% of respondents were complied with all required Umrah vaccinations. The proportion of respondents who complied with Umrah vaccinations increased significantly in correlation with gender and the level of education. Additionally, survey respondents who were performing Umrah and/or Hajj for the first time, and who had been instructed about Umrah health requirements by a general practitioner (GP) or  a travel medicine specialist, were more in compliance with Umrah vaccinations. Conclusion: Out of  total respondents, 51% did not comply with Umrah vaccinations. Factors such as gender, education level, prior participation in Umrah/Hajj, and trusted source of Umrah health instructions were found to play a significant role in respondents’ compliance with Umrah vaccinations. Findings suggest the need for education programs led by traveller health experts targeted at Umrah/Hajj visitors to enhance visitors’ compliance with Umrah health requirements