Who should have it
Travellers heading to areas where meningococcal disease is more common, such as the “meningitis belt” of sub Saharan Africa, particularly during the dry season or for longer or closer contact trips. It is also a mandatory requirement for pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah, who need proof of vaccination for their visa.
How many doses
A single dose is usually enough to provide protection. It needs to be given a set time before you travel and lasts for a number of years. Your prescriber will confirm the timing and whether a booster applies in your circumstances.
Possible side effects
Side effects are usually mild and may include soreness, redness or swelling at the injection site, headache, tiredness, or a mild temperature in the days after vaccination.
Additional precautions
The vaccine protects against four common groups (A, C, W and Y) but not every type of meningitis, so it’s still important to know the signs and seek urgent medical help if they appear. Meningococcal disease spreads more easily in crowded conditions, so good hand hygiene helps too.
About the disease
Meningococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection that can cause meningitis, which is inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord, and blood poisoning. It can develop very quickly and become life threatening, which is why vaccination and prompt treatment are so important.