A team of Senior British Doctors from Association of British Hujjaj (pilgrims) UK have issued a strong warning to British Hajj pilgrims that they must get 'quadrivalent' meningococcal vaccine (ACWY vac) to protect themselves and their families before leaving for Hajj this year.

Over 2 million pilgrims will converge from all over the world to perform hajj in last week of December 2006 in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, including pilgrims from countries in the traditional African meningitis belt.

The pilgrims are at risk of meningitis infections due to the crowded condition at ceremonies, accommodation, sites and public transport. Meningococcal infection is transmitted through direct person-to-person contact with droplets of nasal or throat secretions of infected individuals.

Close and prolonged contact (e.g. sneezing and coughing on someone, etc.) facilitates the spread of infection. The most common symptoms are stiff neck, high fever, sensitivity to light, confusion, headaches and vomiting.

"As a result of an outbreak of Meningococcal infection during Hajj there has been a tragic loss of over 20 innocent human lives amongst British Hajj pilgrims in the recent past. 燤eningitis is a real and very serious risk for Hajj pilgrims. They may also bring the meningitis germs back to their families, friends and community", said the Doctors in their joint statement.

Further advice and information about Meningitis and other Hajj related Health issues, is available from Association of British Hujjaj (pilgrims) UK which is the only Hajj specific National voluntary organisation working for the welfare and wellbeing of British Hajj pilgrims.

Association of British Hujjaj (pilgrims) UK
Southside Centre
249 Ladypool Road
Birmingham, B12 8LF
UK
http://www.abhuk.com