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23 Apr 2001
JOINT MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND
MINISTRY OF THE ENVIRONMENT
PRESS RELEASE:
MENINGOCOCCAL INFECTION
In the last week, two cases of meningococcal infection in close contacts of returning pilgrims from Saudi Arabia have been reported in Singapore. Both these cases were caused by an uncommon strain, W 135. One patient has since recovered and has been discharged from hospital. The other patient developed serious complications and died.
Meningococcal infection is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium, Neisseria meningitidis. The disease is spread by respiratory droplets from an infected person. Transmission from person to person is increased in an overcrowded environment. The signs and symptoms include high fever, cough, severe headache, vomiting, stiff neck, discomfort when looking at bright lights and drowsiness. The disease can be effectively treated with antibiotics. However, in severe cases, complications and death may occur.
Pilgrims going to the annual Haj are required by Saudi Arabia to be vaccinated against two strains of the bacteria (A and C), as the disease is commonly caused by these 2 major strains. However, this vaccine does not protect against the uncommon W 135 strain. In view of the recent occurrence of cases related to the uncommon W 135 strain, all travellers to Saudi Arabia are advised to be vaccinated against the A and C strains, as well as the W 135 strain. Although vaccinated persons are protected against the disease, a small number of returning pilgrims who have been vaccinated may still carry the bacteria in their nose and mouth. As a result, vaccinated persons may transmit the infection to close contacts upon their return from Saudi Arabia.
The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of the Environment would like to advise all returning pilgrims from Saudi Arabia to look out for signs and symptoms of the disease and to seek immediate medical attention if they are ill. All close contacts of returning pilgrims are also advised to consult their doctors immediately if they are unwell.