UKHSA kannustaa aivokalvontulehdusrokotuksia Hajj- ja Umrah-pilvijöitä varten

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is advising travelers heading to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) for Umrah and the upcoming Hajj pilgrimages to be vaccinated against meningococcal disease with the MenACWY vaccine, due to ongoing outbreaks of serogroup W (MenW) disease linked to travel to KSA.

UKHSA has confirmed five cases of MenW disease between February and March 2025 in individuals who had recently returned from KSA or in their close contacts within England and Wales.

While invasive meningococcal disease is uncommon, it can be serious and is caused by meningococcal bacteria. Meningococcal meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord lining) and septicaemia (blood poisoning) are critical conditions that can result in death or lifelong disabilities.

Those participating in Hajj or Umrah, along with seasonal workers, must provide a valid MenACWY vaccination certificate issued between 10 days and 3 to 5 years prior to arrival, depending on the type of MenACWY vaccine they previously received. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) recommend that all travelers to KSA consider getting the quadrivalent meningococcal (MenACWY) vaccine, particularly during the current MenW outbreak.

While overseas and for two weeks following their return to the UK, pilgrims and travelers coming back from KSA should watch for symptoms such as:

• fever
• severe headache
• vomiting
• stiff neck
• rash
• extreme sleepiness
• seizures

Symptoms may initially resemble flu and can present in any order, but can lead to severe illness within hours. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention or call 999 in an emergency.

Dr. Shamez Ladhani, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, stated:

The MenACWY vaccination is crucial for pilgrims traveling to KSA for Umrah and Hajj, especially given the recent cases among UK returnees and their families. Meningococcal disease can be lethal and may result in severe lifelong consequences such as hearing impairment, brain damage, and amputations.

Travelers should ensure they are vaccinated at least ten days before their journey and remain alert for symptoms like sudden fever, severe headache, stiff neck, or rash. If you or anyone at home experiences symptoms of meningitis within two weeks of returning from Saudi Arabia, contact your GP or NHS 111, referencing your recent travel history, or call 999 in case of an emergency.

Dr. Sahira Dar, President of the British Islamic Medical Association, remarked:

During Hajj and Umrah, millions of individuals gather in close quarters during the pilgrimage rites, in accommodations, and on public transportation. This significantly elevates the risk of contracting infectious diseases such as meningitis, which is a severe illness. We strongly recommend that all individuals going on Hajj and Umrah receive their MenACWY vaccine to protect themselves and their loved ones back home.

The UKHSA is also informing pilgrims about the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Although the risk to UK travelers remains low, pilgrims are advised to:

• avoid eating raw or undercooked animal products
• steer clear of contact with camels and animal waste
• maintain good hygiene, particularly washing hands after visiting farms, barns, or markets

If fever, cough, or breathing difficulties develop within two weeks of leaving Saudi Arabia, seek medical advice from a GP or NHS 111, and mention your recent travel history and any contact with respiratory cases, healthcare facilities, or camels during your trip.

For more information on vaccinations and travel health precautions for KSA, please visit the NaTHNaC website.