Vaccination for #wyd @madrid11_en

The organizers of WYD is expecting approximately 1,000,000 pilgrims. As of today there is approximately 350,000 registered, with many un- registered last minute pilgrims turning up.

This alone can be can be a logistical and healthcare nightmare, not on to the pilgrms but also to the authorities of Madrid and Spain. Pilgrims will arrive from all over the world, mingling around with each other. In some cases, pilgrims will be staying in communal accomodations such as shools and community halls.

This alone is a perfect recipe for the spread of communicable diseases. While some will say that because this is God's events, he will protect us all from any harm including diseases.

I agree that is true, but God also gave us the resources and free choice to take precautions prior to our travels. If you can afford the trip to Madrid, generally you should be able to afford basic medical healthcare. Even for e largest pilgrimage in the world, the Haj, pilgrims are required to vacinate themselves before leaving for Mecca.

As such, i spoke to my doctor, who recommends a number of vaccinations, typically adminstered for large gatherings of people. The 2 recommended vaccinations are :

1. Meningococcal
2. Influenza / H1N1

In addition to this, I also received a booster for my hepatitis B vacination.

As the medical center recommends taking the vaccination over a period of time, I took my Hepatitis B booster last week, and my Meningococcal today. i will take the Influenze / H1N1 vaccine next week

I'm also considering taking a measles vaccine. I just read that the European Center for Diseases Control (ECDC Health Advisory) recommends vaccination against measles as well.

I truly recommend any and all pilgrims heading to Madrid to consult your local doctors for appropriate vaccinations. It isn't only just for your own protection, but is also a social responsibility to minimize the spread of potential communicable diseases.

If you believe there should be other types of vaccination required, pls do post it in the comments.

Again here is the list of Vaccinations :
1. Meningococcal - vaccine against meningitis
2. Influenza / H1N1
3. Hepatitis B
4. Measles

AGAIN PLEASE CONSULT YOUR LOCAL DOCTOR FOR FURTHER ADVICE !








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