Meningitis ACWY

ACWY Vaccine

The MenACWY vaccine helps protect against meningococcal groups A, C, W and Y, which can cause meningitis and sepsis. It does not protect against every cause of meningitis.

What is Meningitis

Meningitis is an infection of the tissues that surround the brain and spinal cord.

Meningitis is a serious and life threatening illness that can lead to life changing disabilities such as amputations, hearing loss and brain damage

More common in babies, children, teenagers and young adults

Mode of Transmission

Meningitis can be caused by several species of bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. Most infections can be transmitted from person to person. The infection can also be spread by people who carry the virus or bacteria in their nose or throat but not ill themselves.

Vaccine Administration

For travel, adults and children aged one year and over usually receive a single MenACWY dose. The schedule, booster advice and certificate validity depend on age, vaccine type and destination requirements. Ask the travel clinician to check your records.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of meningitis are:

• Stiff neck
• Fever
• Confusion
• Altered mental status
• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting

If you think you or someone else may have meningitis, call 999 or go to A&E immediately. Do not wait for every symptom or for a rash to appear. See the NHS meningitis guidance.

Prevention

Different vaccines protect against different causes of meningitis. Your clinician will explain what MenACWY covers and whether any other vaccination is relevant.

Travellers at increased risk should seek an individual assessment. Read the NaTHNaC meningococcal disease guidance.

Vaccination

Allow at least 2 weeks before travelling for vaccination to be effective

For a vaccination enquiry ahead of Hajj, Umrah or another trip, start with our travel clinic booking and price guide. Contact the clinic team to ask about your travel dates, appointment availability and certificate arrangements.