All hajj-2011 pilgrims to get free influenza vaccine in J&K

Srinagar: All the pilgrims selected for Hajj-2011 will get free of cost the seasonal influenza vaccine in Jammu and Kashmir.

About 8,500 pilgrims from the state selected under government quota and by private tour operators will get free vaccine, following intervention by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
The Hajjis were earlier directed to pay Rs 345 per head by the department of health services. This was for the first time, the hajjis will not have to shell out a penny for the vaccine.
An official spokesman said Mr Abdullah has directed the health services to provide free of cost the seasonal influenza Vaccine to the intending Hajj Pilgrims of 2011.
He said the order issued earlier by the department has been cancelled.
The communiqué further said if anyone has paid on this account, he or she shall contact the departments concerned which have been directed to refund the amount.
The vaccination, which has been made mandatory by the Saudi government for all Hajj pilgrims, has been started in the Kashmir valley from yesterday and will continue for next one week.
However, yesterday hajj pilgrims, who had come from different parts of the valley to Kashmir University for vaccination, had to return to their homes disappointed after the health department demanded money.