Meningococcal Meningitis

Meningitis (Meningococcal Meningitis) is a serious, potentially fatal, bacterial infection that causes swelling of the lining of the brain and spinal cord, and blood poisoning. It can result in permanent disability and death, particularly if blood poisoning occurs.

All Hajj and Umrah pilgrims are required to show certification of vaccination on arrival in Saudi Arabia.

Travel Vaccinations
Per Dose
Course
Meningitis ACWY + Certificate
£64 per dose
1 Dose
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Prevention

Meningitis is a medical emergency requiring urgent hospital treatment, as blood poisoning can develop rapidly. Treatment includes intravenous antibiotics. It is always preferable to take measures to prevent the disease rather than treat it after the fact.

Travellers to areas of risk may be recommended a single dose injection to vaccinate against Meningitis ACWY. All travellers who are vaccinated against Meningitis ACWY will also receive a certificate.

Countries at risk

Meningitis occurs worldwide, but particularly in the Meningitis belt of sub-Saharan Africa.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms can appear suddenly and include severe headache, fever, cold hands and feet, vomiting, muscle and joint pain, stiffness of the neck, sensitivity to bright light, sleepiness, confusion, seizures and loss of consciousness.

Babies, children and adolescents are particularly at risk. Symptoms may be hard to identify in babies and young children, who may exhibit the following signs: refusing feeds, unusual crying or moaning, irritability, listlessness, unresponsiveness, jerky movements or becoming stiff or floppy and very rapid breathing.

Blood poisoning caused by Meningitis can cause a red, purplish rash that does not fade when pressure is applied.

FAQ's

The Meningitis ACWY vaccine is recommended for travellers heading to regions where meningococcal disease is prevalent, such as certain areas in Africa and the Middle East. It's also advisable for first-year college students living in dormitories and others who are at higher risk for the disease.

The Meningitis ACWY vaccine usually offers protection for around five years. After this time, a booster dose may be necessary to maintain immunity, particularly for individuals who remain at high risk.

A Meningitis ACWY booster is recommended every five years for individuals who remain at higher risk of infection.

Countries in the African meningitis belt, certain regions of the Middle East, and travelers to these areas—especially during the dry season—are considered high-risk for meningococcal disease.

The Meningitis ACWY vaccine costs £64. There is also an initial appointment fee of £20, which covers the time spent with our specially trained healthcare professionals who will conduct a risk assessment.

We have clinics nationwide that offer the Meningitis ACWY vaccine. Below is a list of our top clinics providing this service.