Inbound travel from the Middle East is reported to be increasing. The spread of infectious diseases through aircraft is well known.
Meanwhile, on 13 March 2025, the National Epidemiological Service of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reported 11 confirmed cases of invasive meningococcal meningitis infection to WHO. All of these cases were associated with people who performed Umrah (small pilgrimage) in Saudi Arabia between 7 January and 12 March.WHO strongly recommends that all people planning to attend large gatherings such as Hajj (grand pilgrimage) and Umrah are vaccinated against meningococcal infection at least 10 days before the trip It strongly recommends that they be vaccinated against meningococcal infection at least 10 days prior to travel.
2025.04.28