Meningitis Vaccination

About the Meningitis Vaccination

Meningitis is inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, most commonly caused by bacterial or viral infection. Bacterial meningitis — particularly that caused by Neisseria meningitidis — can be rapidly fatal and is a medical emergency. Survivors frequently experience serious complications including hearing loss, brain damage, limb amputation, and septicaemia-related scarring. The disease can progress from first symptoms to death within 24 hours.

Neisseria meningitidis exists in several serogroups, with A, B, C, W, and Y causing the majority of invasive disease globally. The UK childhood immunisation schedule offers protection against groups B and C. The MenACWY vaccine provides broader coverage and is particularly important for travellers to sub-Saharan Africa's meningitis belt, Hajj pilgrims, and university students.

Who should have this vaccination?

• Travellers to the meningitis belt of sub-Saharan Africa (Senegal to Ethiopia), particularly during the dry season
• Hajj and Umrah pilgrims — MenACWY vaccination is a mandatory requirement for entry to Saudi Arabia
• University and college students, particularly freshers moving into hall accommodation
• Individuals with certain medical conditions including asplenia, complement deficiencies, or HIV
• Those travelling to countries with meningococcal outbreaks
• Close contacts of confirmed meningococcal cases

Vaccination schedule

The MenACWY vaccine is given as a single dose for most adults and older children, and provides protection for approximately five years. The MenB vaccine (Bexsero) requires a two-dose course for individuals aged 11 and over, with at least one month between doses. Both vaccines can be administered at the same visit. Our clinical team will advise on which meningococcal vaccines are appropriate for your age, health status, and travel plans.