Travelers Returning From Saudi Arabia Are High Risk For Meningitis W

Authorities in the UK issue a grave warning about the spread of Meningitis W among travelers returning from Mecca.

Key Takeaways

The UK Health Security Agency urges Hajj and Umrah pilgrims to vaccinate against MenW with MenACWY due to ongoing outbreaks.
Five MenW cases were confirmed in England and Wales among Saudi Arabia returnees between February and March 2025.
Travelers must present a valid MenACWY vaccination certificate upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.
Watch for symptoms like fever, rash, and stiff neck; immediate medical advice is crucial for suspected cases.
WHO and NaTHNaC recommend the MenACWY vaccine to all travelers to Saudi Arabia during outbreaks.

Health Warning Issued by UK Authorities

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a warning urging travelers to Saudi Arabia, particularly for Umrah and Hajj, to get vaccinated against meningitis with the MenACWY vaccine. This advisory comes amidst ongoing Meningitis W outbreaks, which have resulted in five confirmed cases in returnees to England and Wales from Saudi Arabia between February and March 2025. Meningococcal disease can swiftly progress, causing meningitis or septicemia, both of which are potentially fatal.

The importance of the MenACWY vaccine cannot be overstated, especially with recent cases among UK returnees. UKHSA states that travelers must present a valid vaccination certificate, issued 10 days to three to five years before arrival, depending on the vaccine type. The certificate is a requirement for entry into Saudi Arabia, making it essential for those embarking on religious pilgrimages.

Understanding Meningococcal Disease and Vaccine Recommendations

Meningococcal disease, although rare, poses serious health risks. The bacterial infection can cause meningitis, an inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, and septicemia, a life-threatening condition resulting from bacteria entering the bloodstream. Travelers should be aware of symptoms like fever, headache, vomiting, stiff neck, rash, sleepiness, and seizures. These symptoms can quickly escalate, necessitating immediate medical intervention if suspected.

According to Dr. Shamez Ladhani, a consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, “The MenACWY vaccination is essential for pilgrims travelling to KSA for Umrah and Hajj, particularly given recent cases among UK returnees and their families. Meningococcal disease can be fatal and may leave survivors with serious lifelong conditions, including hearing loss, brain damage, and limb amputations.”

The World Health Organization (WHO) and NaTHNaC recommend that all travelers to Saudi Arabia consider the MenACWY vaccine amidst the MenW outbreak. Large gatherings during Umrah and Hajj increase the risk of infectious diseases. Thus, the importance of good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing and avoiding raw animal products, is also highlighted by health authorities to protect against infections like Meningitis W and MERS-CoV.

Risk Mitigation and Traveler Advisory

In light of the risks, Dr. Ladhani has emphasized the necessity of monitoring for symptoms after travel, advising any symptomatic individuals to consult their GP or call NHS 111 while mentioning their travel history. In case of emergencies, individuals are advised to dial 999. Additionally, parents of teenagers are reminded that the MenACWY vaccine is available for free through the NHS for certain age groups and can also be administered at private clinics and pharmacies prior to travel.

“Millions of people gather in close proximity during the pilgrimages, in accommodation, and on public transport, increasing the risk of contracting infectious diseases like meningitis,” said Dr. Sahira Dar, President of the British Islamic Medical Association.

The British Islamic Medical Association advises citizens embarking on pilgrimage to ensure vaccination at least ten days before travel. They also stress the importance of seeking immediate medical advice if symptoms are observed upon returning. With meningitis posing a considerable threat, the collective efforts of vaccination and vigilant monitoring post-travel could save lives and prevent severe outcomes associated with MenW infections.