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Meningitis warning for Hajj pilgrims
27 November 2006
Meningitis Research Foundation is reminding returning Hajj pilgrims and their families to be aware of the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia.
Over the past few years there have been a number of cases of meningitis and septicaemia - the blood poisoning form of the disease - following Hajj.
Vaccination to protect against some forms of these diseases is now a visa requirement for entry to Saudi Arabia, but it is important to remember that this vaccine cannot protect against all forms of the diseases.
Meningitis and septicaemia are diseases that can develop very quickly and can kill in hours. Therefore, it is vital to know the signs and symptoms and the need to obtain medical help immediately if a case is suspected.
These diseases often start with flu-like symptoms - fever, vomiting, cold hands and feet, shivering, and 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.
Further information about meningitis and septicaemia can be obtained from Meningitis Research Foundation's Freefone 24 hour helpline - 080 8800 3344.
Written and audio information is available in 18 languages including Arabic, Bengali, Gujarati, Punjabi, Somali, Turkish and Urdu by contacting the Foundation, or on this site. An interpretation service in 120 languages is also available via the helpline.