Meningitis ACWY Vaccination
Meningitis is passed from person to person who are in close contact via nasal or throat droplets, for example by coughing, sneezing or kissing. The meningitis ACWY vaccination protects you against infection from the A, C, W and Y types of bacteria.
Prices
Price per dose: £55
Doses per course: 1
Price per course: £55
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About the vaccine
When to get vaccinated: If you are getting vaccinated prior to going to a risk area you should aim to get the jab at least two weeks before.
Course: The course consists of one dose.
Boosters: Boosters aren’t currently recommended. However, you can get a booster five years after your last jab if you need it for a meningitis ACWY certificate.
How it is given: Injection in the upper arm.
Side effects: The ACWY vaccine can cause mild side effects, such as redness and swelling at the injection site and tiredness. Some people also report having a high temperature as a result of the injection.
Children: The vaccine can be given from birth.
Additional precautions: Early treatment is vital – if you or a fellow traveller show symptoms of meningitis, seek medical attention immediately. The ACWY vaccine does not protect against meningitis B.
Risk if you contract the disease: Meningitis can cause an inflammation of the tissue around the spinal cord and brain. This can result in brain damage and death.
About Meningitis ACWY Vaccination
If you are planning international travel, it is important to determine whether your destination falls within an area at risk for meningococcal meningitis. Meningitis is notably prevalent in certain regions of Sub-Saharan Africa, often referred to as the “meningitis belt.” In this area, meningitis A is the most common cause of the disease, although recent outbreaks of W, X, and C have also been reported.
The meningitis vaccine involves a single dose administered by injection. To ensure adequate protection, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with your pharmacist at least three weeks before your departure date.
It is recommended that students embarking on their first year of university receive a single dose of the Meningitis ACWY vaccine. Moreover, there is a routine NHS vaccine program for all children in year 9.
The Meningitis ACWY vaccine provides protection for a minimum of 5 years, with no ongoing requirement for booster shots except for documentation purposes. It is worth noting that certain countries, such as Saudi Arabia, may require travellers to furnish a Meningitis ACWY certificate prior to entry.
What is Meningitis?
Various types of meningitis can pose a risk to travellers, including meningitis A, C, W, and Y. These are all forms of meningococcal meningitis caused by bacteria. Unlike viral meningitis, bacterial meningitis is highly perilous. Neisseria meningitidis bacteria can lead to severe brain damage by causing inflammation of the meningeal tissue enveloping the brain and spinal cord. Approximately 10% of meningitis patients may succumb to the infection, even with treatment. Meningitis symptoms can differ from person to person, but they typically involve a severe headache, high temperature, and vomiting. Some patients may also experience a stiff neck, heightened sensitivity to light, and extreme fatigue. A distinctive symptom of meningitis is a skin rash, although it may not appear in every case.
In addition to the conventional meningitis C vaccine, there is a meningitis ACWY vaccine, offering protection against all four meningitis types specified in its name. This vaccine is particularly suitable for travellers who may be exposed to any of these four types.
Meningitis Certificate
Certain countries, such as Saudi Arabia, have requirements mandating the presentation of a meningitis ACWY certificate before allowing entry into the country. This is especially relevant for individuals undertaking the Hajj pilgrimage, for which the meningitis vaccine is compulsory.
When to see a doctor
Bacterial meningitis can be effectively treated with antibiotics. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent the development of severe symptoms and potentially irreversible brain damage. If you or a fellow traveller exhibits any symptoms of meningitis, it is imperative to seek assistance at a local hospital. Meningitis is regarded as a medical emergency, and timely attention is essential. However, immediate care may not always be readily available when travelling.
It is important to note that a meningitis ACWY vaccine offers effective protection against types A, C, W, and Y of meningitis but does not provide immunity against meningitis type B.
Side Effects
After receiving the meningitis ACWY vaccination, you may encounter some side effects. These can encompass symptoms like fever, nausea, headache, and fatigue. Skin irritation at the injection site is also a possible side effect. In some cases, a small lump may develop at the injection site, which should resolve on its own within a few weeks.
If you experience any other side effects or if your symptoms do not improve, it is advisable to consult a doctor. Additionally, if you have a high fever exceeding 38.5 degrees Celsius that persists for more than 24 hours, it is important to seek medical attention and report this to your healthcare provider.
Common side effects may include:
– Pain
– Redness
– Itching
– Swelling
– Hardening at the injection site
– Headache
– Nausea
– General malaise
– Fever
– Chills
– Rash
– Irritability
– Gastrointestinal disturbances
– Lymphangitis
– Myalgia