Meningitis ACWY

When to book the meningitis ACWY vaccine

The NHS recommends MenACWY for several higher-risk groups:

• Teenagers - routinely offered at around 13 to 15, usually in Year 9 or 10
• University students - first-time students who have not been vaccinated, ideally before term starts
• Travellers - particularly to sub-Saharan Africa, where meningococcal disease is more common
• Hajj and Umrah pilgrims - Saudi Arabia requires proof of MenACWY vaccination
• People with certain medical conditions - including a weakened immune system or a missing or non-functioning spleen

Meningococcal bacteria spread through close, prolonged contact such as coughing, sneezing, kissing or sharing utensils, so university halls, barracks and dormitories carry higher risk.

Symptoms to watch for

• A high temperature, fever or chills
• Severe headache that painkillers do not touch
• Stiff neck and sensitivity to bright light
• A blotchy rash that does not fade when a glass is pressed against it
• Drowsiness, confusion or difficulty waking
• Nausea, vomiting and sometimes diarrhoea
• Cold hands and feet, muscle or joint pain

If you suspect meningitis or septicaemia, call 999 immediately. Early antibiotic treatment can be lifesaving. Around one in ten people with meningococcal meningitis will die even with prompt treatment, and survivors can be left with hearing loss, brain damage, kidney problems or limb amputation.

What is meningitis ACWY?

Meningococcal disease is caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis and can lead to meningitis, inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord, and septicaemia, blood poisoning. Both can become life-threatening within hours. Groups A, C, W and Y account for a large share of cases worldwide, and group W infections have been rising in recent years.

The MenACWY conjugate vaccine prompts your immune system to make antibodies against all four serogroups. A single dose usually gives long-lasting protection, with boosters for people at ongoing risk.

Side effects

• Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site
• Tiredness or feeling generally unwell for a day or two
• Mild headache
• Mild nausea or reduced appetite

Serious allergic reactions are extremely rare, and our pharmacists monitor you briefly after vaccination.

Preparing for your appointment

Bring a record of previous vaccinations if you have one, tell your pharmacist about allergies, medical conditions and medicines you take, wear a short-sleeved top, and reschedule if you have a high temperature on the day. Most people carry on with normal activities straight afterwards.

Find meningitis ACWY vaccination near you

No GP referral needed. Experienced pharmacists, private consultation rooms, flexible hours including evenings and weekends at selected branches, and certificates for travel including Hajj and Umrah. Use the postcode search above to find your nearest Allied Pharmacy.