Pilgrims who are planning to travel to Mecca are being advised to act soon and get the vaccine against brain fever to avoid brain fever.

Sri Lanka Medical Services stated that those who are not vaccinated will not be granted visas.

Further, Sri Lankans travelling to Brazil and certain African countries, must be vaccinated for yellow fever.

Meningitis vaccine has been made mandatory by Saudi government for all local and foreign pilgrims to avoid brain fever as the disease may spread during the Haj season causing outbreaks because many pilgrims come from endemic areas.

It should be given 10 days before departure and is valid for a period of three years.