Pneumococcal disease during Hajj and Umrah: Research agenda for evidence-based vaccination policy for these events

Pneumococcal disease is an important cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide with a significant financial burden. Pneumococcal vaccines are available and recommended in many countries for at-risk populations including young children, the elderly and those with underlying medical conditions. The Hajj and Umrah mass gatherings attract millions of Muslim pilgrims to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia each year. These events increase the risk of pneumococcal disease especially among the large number of elderly pilgrims with co-morbidities.
Source: Travel Medicine and Infectious Disease - Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Source Type: research