Relatives and natives are affected by Hajj

Editor—Thanks for this fascinating and timely article which gives almost all information you need about Hajj.¹ Relatives are also affected by Hajj pilgrims. For example, they should be vaccinated against meningitis as well.

KINOMACH/REX

Inhabitants of cities that pilgrims pass through are advised to leave during Hajj season. Jeddah, the point of entry to the holy lands, becomes crowded during the month of Hajj. People come from almost every country in the world and from countries in which many contageous, communicable diseases are endemic. After 2003's outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), the authorities have set many regulations to make the season diseases free.

1. Gatrad AR, Sheikh A. Hajj: journey of a lifetime. studentBMJ 2005;13:76-8. (February.)