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Meningitis warning for returning Hajj pilgrims
13 January 2006
Meningitis Research Foundation is reminding returning Hajj pilgrims and their families of the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia, as over the last few years there have been cases of these diseases following the Hajj.
Although there are vaccines which give excellent protection against meningitis and septicaemia (blood poisoning) they cannot protect against all forms. Therefore it is important that if someone becomes ill, symptoms are recognised quickly and medical help obtained immediately.
These diseases often start with flu-like symptoms - fever, vomiting, cold hands and feet, shivering and limb, joint and muscle pain. Severe headache, stiff neck and dislike of bright lights may also be present as well as a rash which could appear anywhere on the body.
Denise Vaughan, Meningitis Research Foundation's Chief Executive, commented: "In view of the outbreaks of meningitis and septicaemia over the past few years associated with the Hajj, it is important that pilgrims and their families are aware of the symptoms. With these diseases, the quicker they are diagnosed and treated, the better the chances for a good recovery."
Speaking on behalf of the Association of British Hajjaj (Pilgrims) UK (ABH), Mr Khalid Pervez, General Secretary said: "Meningitis and septicaemia are killer diseases which need to be treated immediately. The ABH would urge all returning pilgrims and their families to be aware of the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia and know what to do if these diseases are suspected."
Further information about meningitis and septicaemia can be obtained from Meningitis Research Foundation's Freefone 24 hour helpline - 080 8800 3344.
Information, written and audio, is available on this website in 18 languages including Arabic, Bengali, Gujarati, Punjabi, Somali, Turkish and Urdu. An interpreter service in 120 languages is available via the helpline.