Travel vaccine
Meningitis ACWY
A single-dose vaccine protecting against four serious strains of meningococcal infection.
About the disease
Meningococcal disease can cause meningitis, an inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord, and septicaemia, a dangerous blood infection. It can progress alarmingly fast and become life-threatening within hours, so protecting against the main travel-related strains is a sensible step before certain trips.
Who should consider it
This vaccine is a requirement for anyone travelling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah, and you will need a valid certificate to enter. It is also recommended for travellers spending time in the sub-Saharan “meningitis belt”, particularly during the dry season, and for those living in close quarters such as student halls.
The vaccine and next steps
One dose offers protection against groups A, C, W and Y. For pilgrimage travel, the vaccine usually needs to be given at least ten days before arrival, so it is worth planning ahead. Book a travel consultation at Crewe Pharmacy, 139-141 Nantwich Road, and we will check the entry rules for your destination and make sure your paperwork is in order before you fly.
How it spreads
Passed person to person through respiratory droplets and close contact, such as coughing, sneezing and kissing.
Who should be vaccinated
Pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah (where proof is mandatory), students, and travellers to the African meningitis belt.
Vaccination schedule
Single dose
Boosters
A further dose may be advised after about 5 years for ongoing risk.
Possible side effects
Tenderness and redness at the injection site, mild fever and headache that usually settle quickly.
Regions where there is a risk
Sub-Saharan Africa (meningitis belt), Saudi Arabia (Hajj and Umrah).
Meningitis ACWY — frequently asked questions
Who needs the Meningitis ACWY vaccine for travel?
The Meningitis ACWY vaccine is needed by pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah, where proof of vaccination is mandatory for entry. It is also recommended for travellers to the sub-Saharan African meningitis belt and for students living in close quarters such as halls of residence. Anyone visiting these areas should consider it before departure.
How many doses of Meningitis ACWY do I need?
Meningitis ACWY is given as a single dose that protects against meningococcal groups A, C, W and Y. One injection is enough for most travellers and covers the four main travel-related strains. There is no multi-dose course to complete, which makes it a quick and simple part of your travel preparation.
How long does Meningitis ACWY protection last?
A single dose of Meningitis ACWY offers protection for around five years. If you remain at ongoing risk, for example through repeated pilgrimage travel or living in the meningitis belt, a further dose may be advised after about five years. For Hajj and Umrah, check that your certificate is still valid for your travel dates.
How soon before travel should I have the Meningitis ACWY vaccine?
For Hajj and Umrah, the Meningitis ACWY vaccine usually needs to be given at least ten days before you arrive in Saudi Arabia for the certificate to be accepted. It is best to have it well ahead of departure so your paperwork is ready in good time. Book early to avoid any last-minute problems at the border.
What side effects can the Meningitis ACWY vaccine cause?
Side effects from Meningitis ACWY are generally mild and pass quickly. The most common are tenderness and redness where the injection was given, along with a mild fever or headache. These usually settle within a day or two as your body responds. Serious reactions are uncommon, and we will explain what to expect at your appointment.
Is the Meningitis ACWY vaccine free on the NHS or private at Crewe Pharmacy?
For travel purposes, such as Hajj, Umrah or visiting the meningitis belt, Meningitis ACWY is a private vaccine and not free on the NHS. At Crewe Pharmacy we provide it as part of a travel consultation, including the certificate you need. To book, call 01270 215837 or visit us at 139-141 Nantwich Road, Crewe.
How much does the Meningitis ACWY vaccine cost at Crewe Pharmacy?
The Meningitis ACWY vaccine costs £50 at Crewe Pharmacy. This covers the single dose protecting against groups A, C, W and Y, along with a consultation to check the entry requirements for your destination. We will also make sure any certificate you need for travel is completed correctly before you fly.
Is the Meningitis ACWY vaccine mandatory for Hajj and Umrah?
Yes, the Meningitis ACWY vaccine is a mandatory entry requirement for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia, and you must carry a valid certificate. It is also strongly recommended for the sub-Saharan meningitis belt, especially during the dry season. We will check the current rules for your trip and ensure your documentation is in order.