Meningitis ACWY Vaccination
The meningitis ACWY vaccine is given via one dose, with an injection typically in the upper arm. Protection can last for 5 years or more but, boosters may be needed for travel. Please note this vaccine only protects against meningitis strains A, C, W, and Y. Plan to have your immunisation at least 2 weeks before your trip to build immunity.
When to get vaccinated
A minimum of two weeks prior to travel. Due to past epidemics, the meningitis ACWY vaccination is now compulsory for pilgrims on Hajj and Umrah. If you require your certificate when booking travel, plan your vaccine or booster accordingly.
How it is given
The vaccine is administered via injection, typically in the upper arm.
Children
The vaccine is suitable from birth. Patients under the age of one year will require two doses.
Risks if you contract meningitis
Meningitis can be life-threatening, and it's estimated that 1 in every 2-3 people who survive bacterial meningitis are left with at least one permanent health issue (source: NHS).
Course
Adults receive one dose. Patients under the age of one year will require two doses.
Side effects
Temporary side effects could include a sore injection site, headache, nausea, rash, tiredness, and loss of appetite. Severe reactions are rare.
Additional precautions
Along with the immunisation, it’s vital to ensure good hand hygiene and avoid sharing utensils and drinks.
Before the appointment
Ensure you check the vaccine ingredients for potential allergies and ensure you do not have a high fever at the time of your appointment.
What is Meningitis ACWY?
Meningitis ACWY is an acute inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, caused by strains of the Neisseria meningitidis bacteria. This bacterial infection can be life-threatening and lead to complications, including brain damage or death, if not treated quickly.
Long-term complications can include hearing loss, epilepsy, neurological issues, vision loss, loss of limbs, arthritis, and kidney problems.
In the UK during 2018/19, the fatality rate for meningococcal meningitis (strains A, B, C, W, X, Y, and Z) was 5% (source: NICE). Worldwide estimated deaths from meningococcal meningitis in 2019 were 54,000, and the total number of cases was 306,000 (source: Meningitis Research Foundation).
Travellers to certain destinations are at a higher risk of being exposed to meningitis strains A, C, W, and Y due to lower immunisation rates and the local climate. Attending mass gatherings, such as the Hajj pilgrimage, increases exposure risk due to close interactions, and it is now a mandatory requirement to have a meningitis ACWY vaccination alongside obtaining a certificate of proof before travel.
The risk of meningitis ACWY in the UK is much lower due to the vaccination programmes in place. The immunisation is routinely administered to teenagers and first-year university students, ensuring that the population maintains immunity against this dangerous disease. Public health initiatives also monitor and respond to any outbreaks.
