The Ministry of Health in Bahrain has announced that the Meningococcal vaccine is now mandatory for all foreign workers entering the country, as a preventive measure against meningococcal disease.
Accordingly, this requirement also applies to Sri Lankan migrant workers, the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment stated.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Sri Lankan Embassy in Bahrain, Sri Lanka is set to implement a vaccination programme for its citizens travelling to Bahrain, based on the guidelines issued by the Bahraini government and the Gulf Cooperation Council.
Meningococcal disease is an infectious illness caused by the Neisseria meningitidis bacterium, which can be fatal if left untreated. Meningitis is a contagious disease and is recognized as a leading cause of illness, death, and disability in both developed and developing countries.
Health authorities have highlighted the importance of the meningococcal vaccine as a crucial part of immunization strategies, particularly in regions with a high concentration of migrant workers, to minimize the risk of disease transmission. The Gulf Cooperation Council has also recommended its inclusion.
The mandatory vaccination aims to safeguard the health of workers and prevent potential outbreaks, aligning with broader public health goals.
Bahrain has long been a popular destination for Sri Lankan migrant workers, and that trend continues to grow. The Bureau of Foreign Employment revealed that over 4,000 Sri Lankan workers departed for employment in Bahrain in 2024 alone. (NewsWire)