Invasive meningococcal disease (meningitis) in Saudi Arabia

The World Health Organization has reported 17 cases of invasive meningococcal disease in pilgrims while they were in Saudi Arabia or after they have returned to their home countries.

Invasive meningococcal disease is an acute infectious disease, caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitides that can cause serious systemic infection including meningitis and septicaemia. It is spread through sneezing, coughing or direct contact with respiratory secretions.

Advice to travellers

A key requirement is that all travellers must receive the MenACWY vaccine before departing from their home country for Umrah and Hajj.

All pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah are required to show proof of immunisation against meningococcal meningitis with:

• quadrivalent (ACWY) meningococcal meningitis conjugate vaccine, administered within the last 5 years and at least 10 days prior to arrival in Saudi Arabia
• the type of vaccine should be clearly shown on the vaccination certificate

Risk of infection for most travellers is low (particularly for package tourists). Risk is increased for those travelling to a region with an ongoing epidemic:

• who anticipate close, prolonged contact with the local population
• who plan to visit overcrowded areas e.g. busy market places, or use public transport
• to attend a mass gathering event
• if they have immunodeficiency including asplenia

All travellers should be aware of the risk of meningococcal disease, its transmission routes and symptoms and advised to:

• avoid overcrowded areas (where possible)
• pay strict attention to respiratory hygiene and hand hygiene measures

See the TRAVAX Meningococcal Meningitis page and the Hajj & Umrah page for further information.