Meningitis ACWY vaccine
Meningococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection that causes meningitis and blood poisoning. It spreads through close, prolonged contact with respiratory droplets. Outbreaks are most common in the meningitis belt of sub-Saharan Africa.
- Course
- Single dose
- Price per dose
- £55
- Start at least
- 2 weeks before
Your course, dose by dose
Day 0
First dose at your consultation
Fly
Protected before you travel
Typical schedule shown. Your pharmacist confirms yours, and some courses can be speeded up.
Who it’s for
- Health workers, people visiting friends and relatives, backpackers, and long-stay travellers who have close contact with local people.
- People without a working spleen and those with certain rare immune problems.
- Pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah, who need a certificate.
Schedule
- Course
- One injection.
- When to have it
- 2 to 3 weeks before travel. For Hajj and Umrah the certificate must be issued at least 10 days before arrival.
- How long it lasts
- About 5 years.
Good to know
- The MenACWY vaccine given to UK teenagers counts, if it was within the last 5 years.
Often advised for trips to
Common questions
Do I need it for Hajj or Umrah?+
Yes. Saudi Arabia requires a meningitis ACWY certificate for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. We give the vaccine and the certificate you need.
How many doses of the Meningitis ACWY vaccine do I need?+
The usual course is a single dose. Your pharmacist confirms the right schedule for you, and some courses can be speeded up if you are travelling soon.
How long before travel should I have the Meningitis ACWY vaccine?+
Start at least 2 weeks before you travel so the course is complete and has time to work. If you are leaving sooner, call us on 01249 892813.
How much does the Meningitis ACWY vaccine cost?+
£55 per dose. Your consultation is included.
Do I need a GP referral?+
No. Book directly with us and bring details of any medicines you take and vaccines you have had before.
Can children have it?+
Many travel vaccines can be given to children. Minimum ages vary, and your pharmacist will check at the appointment.
Clinical content by Lyneham Pharmacy and Travel Clinic (GPhC registered pharmacy 9010716).