Influenza a Common Viral Infection among Hajj Pilgrims: Time for Routine Surveillance and Vaccination

Abstract

The annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia brings over two million people to a small confined area. Respiratory tract infection is the most common disease transmitted during this period. For most of the etiologic agents of upper respiratory tract infections, no vaccine or prophylaxis is available, except for influenza. Yearly influenza vaccination of high-risk groups is recommended, but no special recommendations are available for those performing the Hajj or other similar large congregational activities. Viral surveillance studies are being carried out through more than 100 centers around the world to identify newly emerging viruses. Saudi Arabia is not one of those centers and no routine surveillance takes place.