Latest news with #ShamezLadhani
Daily Mail
30-04-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Alert over flu-like disease that kills in ONE DAY landing on UK shores...get jabbed, experts urge
Health chiefs have warned of a surge in a lethal flu-like bacterial disease that can lead to permanent disability and even rapid death. Meningitis W, an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord, has been detected in people travelling back to the UK from the Middle East. The five cases, confirmed between February and March, had all either recently returned from an Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia, or had family members who had, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The deadly condition spreads primarily by droplets from the nose and mouth through close contact with the infected person, such as by coughing, sneezing or kissing. Symptoms can initially appear flu like, but without rapid treatment can cause life-threatening septicemia, otherwise known as blood poisoning. Within hours this can trigger complications like brain damage, seizures, and even death. Now, officials have urged Britons to ensure they've had the meningitis vaccine to prevent against infection, especially those planning a trip to Saudi. Dr Shamez Ladhani, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: 'Vaccination is essential for pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia, particularly given recent cases among UK returnees and their families. 'Meningococcal disease [the medical term for meningitis] can be fatal and may leave survivors with serious lifelong conditions including hearing loss, brain damage and limb amputations. 'Pilgrims should ensure vaccination at least ten days before travel and remain vigilant for symptoms like sudden fever, severe headache, stiff neck, or rash. 'If you or anyone at home becomes unwell with any symptoms of meningitis within two weeks of returning from Saudi Arabia, contact your GP or NHS 111, mentioning your recent travel history, or dial 999 in case of emergency.' Dr Sahira Dar, President of the British Islamic Medical Association, added: 'Millions of people gather in close proximity during the pilgrimages, in accommodation, and on public transport, increasing the risk of contracting infectious diseases like meningitis.' The association 'highly recommends' anyone attending the pilgrimages get the meningitis vaccine — known medically as the MenACWY vaccine — she added. Muslim pilgrims make trips to Mecca throughout the year to receive blessings. Some also undertake a larger pilgrimage, known as the Hajj pilgrimage, at least once in their lifetime, which this year will take place from June 4 to June 9. UKHSA officials said several Meningitis W cases throughout 2024 were known to have had recent travel to the Middle East, with similar cases also identified in France and the US. Latest World Health Organization (WHO) data also shows there have been 11 confirmed cases of the infection in Saudi Arabia between January 7 and March 12 — all in pilgrims. Meningitis W is caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis, which can often live harmlessly in the back of the throat without causing illness. But in some cases, it 'invades' the body's defences, leading to invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) and septicaemia. Research suggests IMD has a fatality rate of 8 to 15 per cent, meaning it can kill around 1 in 10 people it infects. Symptoms can initially appear flu like, with patients suffering a fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea or drowsiness. But as it invades the defenses of the body and spreads into the brain through the bloodstream, symptoms quickly become more severe. Signs the infection has spread include severe aches or pain in the muscles, joints, chest, or abdomen, a dark purple rash and rapid breathing. One in five survivors will have long-term disabilities, such as brain damage, deafness, loss of limbs and nervous system problems. Meningitis W is one of seven different meningococcal bacteria that can cause meningitis. These are A, B, C, W, X, Y and Z, with Meningitis B accounting for roughly 80 per cent of all cases each year. Meningitis W, by comparison, is thought to account for around 7 per cent of all UK cases. The MenACWY vaccine offers protection against 4 types of bacteria that can cause meningitis: meningococcal groups A, C, W and Y. It is offered to teenagers aged 14 years old as well as people up to the age of 25 who have never had a meningitis vaccine before.
Scottish Sun
29-04-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
‘Get jabbed' health chiefs warn after flu-like disease that kills in 24 hours found in travellers returning to the UK
TRAVELLERS returning to the UK have been warned of a rare bug that invades the nervous system and can turn fatal within hours. In recent weeks the UK has reported cases of meningococcal disease in people who've returned from Saudi Arabia. Advertisement 3 Five cases of MenW were confirmed in England and Wales between February and March Credit: ECDC 3 Muslim pilgrims make Umrah trips to Mecca throughout the year to receive blessings. Credit: Getty According to the latest report from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), five cases of Meningococcal Group W (MenW) were confirmed between February and March of this year. The disease has been found in people who recently returned to the UK from Umrah, an Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, and in their family members. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also reported 11 confirmed cases of MenW in Saudi Arabia between January 7 and March 12, all in pilgrims who had performed Umrah. People planning on travelling to the region are now being urged to ensure they are jabbed against meningococcal disease with the MenACWY vaccine. Advertisement MenW is caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis. It can often live harmlessly in the back of the throat without causing illness. But in some cases, it can "invade" the body's defences, leading to IMD infection. When it does, it progresses rapidly, with a fatality rate of 8-15 per cent, meaning it can kill around 1 in 10 people it infects. This is because the infection can lead to meningitis (an infection of the brain and spine's protective lining) and septicaemia (blood poisoning). Advertisement Both conditions require urgent treatment with antibiotics and rapid hospital admission as they can become fatal in a matter of hours. Symptoms of meningococcal disease can first appear flu-like and may quickly become more severe. The signs and symptoms of sepsis to look out for, according to The UK Sepsis Trust Muslim pilgrims make Umrah trips to Mecca throughout the year to receive blessings. They also undertake the larger Hajj pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime, which this year will take place from June 4 to June 9. Advertisement Due to large crowds, both Umrah and Hajj present unique health risks. "Millions of people gather in close proximity during the pilgrimages, in accommodation, and on public transport, increasing the risk of contracting infectious diseases like meningitis," said Dr Sahira Dar, President of the British Islamic Medical Association. "We highly recommend that everyone going on Hajj and Umrah receive their MenACWY vaccine which could protect them and their loved ones back home," she added. Get vaccinated 10 days before travel Dr Shamez Ladhani, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, described the vaccination as "essential". Advertisement "Meningococcal disease can be fatal and may leave survivors with serious lifelong conditions including hearing loss, brain damage and limb amputations," she added. She told those planning to make the pilgrimage to ensure that they were vaccinated "at least ten days before travel". And she said they should "remain vigilant for symptoms like sudden fever, severe headache, stiff neck, or rash" during or after their trip. "If you or anyone at home experiences symptoms of meningitis within two weeks of returning from Saudi Arabia, contact your GP or NHS 111, mentioning your recent travel, or dial 999 in an emergency," she added. Advertisement Camel flu warning The UKHSA also advised travellers to reduce their risk of contracting Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) - a rare but severe respiratory illness. The virus, dubbed 'camel flu', due to being found in the animals - does circulate in the region. The health body has urged travellers to avoid consuming raw or undercooked animal products and contact with camels and animal waste. People should also practice good hygiene, particularly washing hands after visiting farms, barns or markets, they added. Advertisement What vaccine do I need? you're planning to travel to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah, you'll need to get the MenACWY vaccine. This jab protects against four strains of meningococcal bacteria — A, C, W, and Y — and is a visa requirement for entry into the country. The vaccine is available for free on the NHS for teenagers in school years 9 and 10. If you missed it at school, you can still get the jab up to your 25th birthday through your GP. For everyone else, or if you need the vaccine quickly, it's widely available at private clinics and pharmacies across the UK. Superdrug, Well Pharmacy, and the Fleet Street Clinic in London all offer the MenACWY jab, usually with a certificate included. You can also book appointments through sites like which list local providers by area. You must have your vaccine at least 10 days before travelling, and the certificate is valid for either three or five years depending on the brand given. Make sure you check ahead for availability and pricing, which varies by location.
The Sun
29-04-2025
- Health
- The Sun
‘Get jabbed' health chiefs warn after flu-like disease that kills in 24 hours found in travellers returning to the UK
TRAVELLERS returning to the UK have been warned of a rare bug that invades the nervous system and can turn fatal within hours. In recent weeks the UK has reported cases of meningococcal disease in people who've returned from Saudi Arabia. 3 3 According to the latest report from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), five cases of Meningococcal Group W (MenW) were confirmed between February and March of this year. The disease has been found in people who recently returned to the UK from Umrah, an Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, and in their family members. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also reported 11 confirmed cases of MenW in Saudi Arabia between January 7 and March 12, all in pilgrims who had performed Umrah. People planning on travelling to the region are now being urged to ensure they are jabbed against meningococcal disease with the MenACWY vaccine. MenW is caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis. It can often live harmlessly in the back of the throat without causing illness. But in some cases, it can "invade" the body's defences, leading to IMD infection. When it does, it progresses rapidly, with a fatality rate of 8-15 per cent, meaning it can kill around 1 in 10 people it infects. This is because the infection can lead to meningitis (an infection of the brain and spine's protective lining) and septicaemia (blood poisoning). Both conditions require urgent treatment with antibiotics and rapid hospital admission as they can become fatal in a matter of hours. Symptoms of meningococcal disease can first appear flu-like and may quickly become more severe. The signs and symptoms of sepsis to look out for, according to The UK Sepsis Trust Muslim pilgrims make Umrah trips to Mecca throughout the year to receive blessings. They also undertake the larger Hajj pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime, which this year will take place from June 4 to June 9. Due to large crowds, both Umrah and Hajj present unique health risks. "Millions of people gather in close proximity during the pilgrimages, in accommodation, and on public transport, increasing the risk of contracting infectious diseases like meningitis," said Dr Sahira Dar, President of the British Islamic Medical Association. "We highly recommend that everyone going on Hajj and Umrah receive their MenACWY vaccine which could protect them and their loved ones back home," she added. Get vaccinated 10 days before travel Dr Shamez Ladhani, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, described the vaccination as "essential". "Meningococcal disease can be fatal and may leave survivors with serious lifelong conditions including hearing loss, brain damage and limb amputations," she added. She told those planning to make the pilgrimage to ensure that they were vaccinated "at least ten days before travel". And she said they should "remain vigilant for symptoms like sudden fever, severe headache, stiff neck, or rash" during or after their trip. "If you or anyone at home experiences symptoms of meningitis within two weeks of returning from Saudi Arabia, contact your GP or NHS 111, mentioning your recent travel, or dial 999 in an emergency," she added. Camel flu warning The UKHSA also advised travellers to reduce their risk of contracting Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) - a rare but severe respiratory illness. The virus, dubbed 'camel flu', due to being found in the animals - does circulate in the region. The health body has urged travellers to avoid consuming raw or undercooked animal products and contact with camels and animal waste. People should also practice good hygiene, particularly washing hands after visiting farms, barns or markets, they added. What vaccine do I need? you're planning to travel to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah, you'll need to get the MenACWY vaccine. This jab protects against four strains of meningococcal bacteria — A, C, W, and Y — and is a visa requirement for entry into the country. The vaccine is available for free on the NHS for teenagers in school years 9 and 10. If you missed it at school, you can still get the jab up to your 25th birthday through your GP. For everyone else, or if you need the vaccine quickly, it's widely available at private clinics and pharmacies across the UK. Superdrug, Well Pharmacy, and the Fleet Street Clinic in London all offer the MenACWY jab, usually with a certificate included. You can also book appointments through sites like which list local providers by area. You must have your vaccine at least 10 days before travelling, and the certificate is valid for either three or five years depending on the brand given. Make sure you check ahead for availability and pricing, which varies by location. 3
Daily Mirror
29-04-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Travellers told 'get vaccinated' against 'lethal' illness if visiting one nation
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has advised travellers to receive a specific meningitis vaccination before visiting one country, with cases on the rise The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is urging travellers to get vaccinated against meningitis, particularly those heading to Saudi Arabia for Umrah and the upcoming Hajj pilgrimages. This comes after a spike in cases has been observed. In recent weeks, five individuals have been diagnosed with meningococcal disease after returning from Saudi Arabia or through contact with returnees in England and Wales. The condition can lead to severe complications such as meningococcal meningitis or septicemia, both of which can be fatal or cause permanent disabilities. Pilgrims travelling for Hajj or Umrah are required to show proof of MenACWY vaccination, which must be administered between 10 days and three to five years prior to entering Saudi Arabia, depending on the vaccine type. Seasonal workers are also subject to this requirement. However, the advice extends beyond pilgrims; all visitors to the region are encouraged to get the MenACWY vaccine. Dr Shamez Ladhani, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, stressed the importance of the vaccine: "The MenACWY vaccination is essential for pilgrims travelling to KSA for Umrah and Hajj, particularly given recent cases among UK returnees and their families." Dr. Ladhani from UKHSA delivered a stark warning for travellers, emphasising the potential severity of meningococcal disease: "Meningococcal disease can be fatal and may leave survivors with serious lifelong conditions including hearing loss, brain damage and limb amputations. Pilgrims should ensure vaccination at least ten days before travel and remain vigilant for symptoms like sudden fever, severe headache, stiff neck, or rash." The health expert didn't mince words when advising on post-travel precautions: "If you or anyone at home becomes unwell with any symptoms of meningitis within two weeks of returning from Saudi Arabia, contact your GP or NHS 111, mentioning your recent travel history, or dial 999 in case of emergency." Dr. Ladhani also outlined crucial symptoms to watch out for, which signify the onset of meningococcal meningitis. These can appear in any order and generally include the following: Severe headache Seizures Fever Stiff neck Vomiting Rash Extreme sleepiness In light of these potential red flags, the UKHSA is calling on anyone with such symptoms to seek urgent medical care or call 999 without delay. Echoing these sentiments, Dr Sahira Dar, President of the British Islamic Medical Association, highlighted the increased risks associated with large gatherings: "During Hajj and Umrah, millions of people gather in very close proximity during the pilgrim rites, in accommodation sites and on public transport." Dr. Dar strongly advises pilgrims to consider their health seriously, stating: "This means that there is a much higher risk of contracting infectious diseases such as meningitis which is a serious illness. We highly recommend that everyone going on Hajj and Umrah receive their MenACWY vaccine which could protect them and their loved ones back home." Moreover, it's crucial to be vigilant for signs of the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). By avoiding contact with animal waste, camels and undercooked animal products, and maintaining good hygiene, you can reduce this risk. Nonetheless, if you develop a cough, fever or breathing difficulties within two weeks of leaving Saudi Arabia, you should get in touch with NHS 111.
Daily Mirror
25-04-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Brits doing Hajj pilgrimage told to get 'essential' jab after new cases of disease
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is reminding travellers to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) for Umrah and the upcoming Hajj pilgrimages to ensure they are vaccinated against meningitis The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is issuing a reminder to those travelling to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) for Umrah and the upcoming Hajj pilgrimages to get vaccinated against meningitis. The agency is urging these travellers to ensure they have received the MenACWY vaccine, which protects against meningococcal disease, due to ongoing outbreaks of serogroup W (MenW) disease linked to travel to KSA. Between February and March 2025, the UKHSA confirmed five cases of MenW disease in individuals who had recently returned from KSA or their close contacts in England and Wales. Invasive meningococcal disease, caused by meningococcal bacteria, is rare but serious, leading to conditions such as meningococcal meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord lining) and septicaemia (blood poisoning), which can be fatal or result in life-altering disabilities. Those embarking on Hajj or Umrah, as well as seasonal workers, must present a valid MenACWY vaccination certificate issued between 10 days and three to five years prior to arrival, depending on the type of MenACWY vaccine previously administered. However, both the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) recommend that all travellers to KSA consider getting the quadrivalent meningococcal (MenACWY) vaccine, particularly amidst the current MenW outbreak. Meningitis symptoms Pilgrims and travellers returning from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) are advised to monitor for symptoms such as fever, severe headache, vomiting, stiff neck, rash, extreme sleepiness, and seizures during their trip and for two weeks after their return to the UK. These symptoms may initially resemble flu and can manifest in any order, but they can escalate to serious illness within hours. If anyone experiences these symptoms and is worried about their health or someone else's, they should seek immediate medical advice or call 999 in a medical emergency. Dr Shamez Ladhani, a consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: "The MenACWY vaccination is essential for pilgrims travelling to KSA for Umrah and Hajj, particularly given recent cases among UK returnees and their families. Meningococcal disease can be fatal and may leave survivors with serious lifelong conditions including hearing loss, brain damage and limb amputations. "Pilgrims should ensure vaccination at least ten days before travel and remain vigilant for symptoms like sudden fever, severe headache, stiff neck, or rash. If you or anyone at home becomes unwell with any symptoms of meningitis within two weeks of returning from Saudi Arabia, contact your GP or NHS 111, mentioning your recent travel history, or dial 999 in case of emergency." Dr Sahira Dar, president of the British Islamic Medical Association, highlighted the increased risk of infectious diseases due to the close proximity of pilgrims: "During Hajj and Umrah, millions of people gather in very close proximity during the pilgrim rights, in accommodation sites and on public transport. This means that there is a much higher risk of contracting infectious diseases such as meningitis which is a serious illness. We highly recommend that everyone going on Hajj and Umrah receive their MenACWY vaccine which could protect them and their loved ones back home." In addition, UKHSA is alerting travellers to the potential risks associated with Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Although the threat to UK residents is low, pilgrims are advised to take specific precautions: - Avoid eating raw or undercooked animal products - Steer clear of camels and any animal waste - Maintain high standards of hygiene, especially washing hands after visiting farms, barns, or markets If symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing arise within two weeks after leaving Saudi Arabia, individuals should promptly contact a GP or NHS 111. It's crucial to mention the recent travel history and any exposure to respiratory cases, healthcare facilities, or camels while travelling. For comprehensive advice on vaccinations and travel health for KSA, the NaTHNaC website offers further information.
