Meningitis and Meningococcal Infection
Meningitis is an inflammation of the membrane overlying the brain. This illness can be caused by a bacterium, virus or fungus, with meningococcal meningitis being of most concern to travellers. Meningococcal meningitis is a serious bacterial infection that can rapidly become a life threatening illness. Transmission is by person- to-person droplet infection, the same way you catch a cold.
The principal region of high risk is in the “Meningitis Belt” of sub-Saharan Africa; Senegal, Mauritania and Ghana across to Ethiopia. There is a seasonal influence with most outbreaks occurring during the dry season (December to June).
Vaccination against Meningococcal A, C, Y & W-135 strains are required by Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umra pilgrims.