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Update: assessment of risk for meningococcal disease associated with the Hajj 2001
Insights
Four U.S. pilgrims contracted meningococcal disease from Neisseria meningitidis serogroup W-135 after returning from the Hajj pilgrimage. This occurred during a global epidemic of this unusual bacterial strain.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
- Microbiology
Background:
- The Hajj pilgrimage attracts millions globally, creating potential for infectious disease spread.
- Neisseria meningitidis serogroup W-135 is an unusual and potentially epidemic-causing strain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report cases of meningococcal disease linked to the Hajj pilgrimage.
- To highlight the emergence of Neisseria meningitidis serogroup W-135 during a global outbreak.
Main Methods:
- Case identification among U.S. travelers returning from the Hajj.
- Monitoring of global case counts related to the specific bacterial strain.
Main Results:
- Four U.S. cases of meningococcal disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis serogroup W-135 were identified in March-April 2000.
- These cases were associated with the Hajj pilgrimage and a larger worldwide epidemic involving approximately 400 cases.
- The identified strain was unusual and contributed to a significant international outbreak.
Conclusions:
- Travelers returning from mass gatherings like the Hajj can introduce and spread infectious diseases.
- The emergence of Neisseria meningitidis serogroup W-135 highlights the importance of global disease surveillance, especially during large international events.
Abstract:
During late March and early April 2000, four cases of meningococcal disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis serogroup W-135 were identified among U.S. pilgrims returning from the Hajj in Saudi Arabia, their close contacts, and communities. These cases occurred as part of a larger epidemic in which approximately 400 cases caused by a similar and unusual strain were identified worldwide. The Hajj, an annual pilgrimage to the major holy places of Islam, is attended by approximately two million persons from approximately 140 countries, including an estimated 15,000 from the United States.