Meningococcal Disease Meningococcal disease occurs as the result of a bacterial infection transmitted by direct contact with infected persons. The disease may often be mild; however, infection may cause more severe disease, including meningitis. Epidemics of meningococcal disease occur in sub-Saharan Africa in an area known as the "meningitis belt." Travelers to this area during the dry season (generally December through June) should receive meningococcal vaccine, especially if prolonged contact with the local populace is likely. Meningococcal disease also occurs in other times of the year and in other parts of Africa and Asia, particularly Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, Mongolia, and Nepal. Vaccination against meningococcal disease is not a requirement for entry into any country, but is required for pilgrims to Mecca, Saudi Arabia for the annual Hajj. The duration of protection following a single dose of the vaccine is not precisely known, but appears to be at least three years in persons four years of age or older. Younger travelers may need to be revaccinated after two years. If you wish to receive meningococcal vaccine, please call us for a clinic appointment.