Muslims are being urged to get immunised against meningitis as part of preparations for their Hajj pilgrimage in December.

The Meningitis Trust is reminding pilgrims to Mecca, in Saudi Arabia, that the vaccine will protect them from strains of meningitis that are not common in the UK but may be carried by pilgrims from other parts of the world.

Alison Osborne, co-ordinator at the Meningitis Trust, said: "Meningitis and meningococcal septicaemia (blood poisoning) can affect anyone at any time and can kill within hours.

"Survivors can be left with disabling after-effects, including brain damage, deafness and, where septicaemia has occurred, loss of limbs.

"People need to be fully aware of the dangers of meningitis both in the UK and abroad and receive appropriate protection where available.

"When people are in prolonged close contact in large gatherings, such as the Hajj, opportunities for transfer of bacteria between people are increased."

More than two million Muslims perform the pilgrimage, which will take place between Saturday, December 6 and Tuesday, December 9, this year.

Pilgrims need to have the vaccine at least three weeks before they travel.

For further information call the Meningitis Trust's free helpline on 0800 028 18 28 or visit www.meningitis-trust.org.