Travel vaccine
Meningitis ACWY Vaccine (MenACWY)
Meningococcal disease can cause meningitis and blood poisoning, and can become serious very quickly. The MenACWY vaccine protects against four common groups of the bacteria. It's required for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims and recommended for travel to the African 'meningitis belt' and for students.
Key facts
Who it's for
Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, the African meningitis belt, and students/long-stay travellers
Vaccination course
A single dose
Minimum age
From 1 year (special schedules for younger infants)
Protection
About 5 years
Hajj/Umrah certificate
Required, and usually needed at least 10 days before arrival
How it spreads
Close contact and respiratory droplets
What is Meningitis ACWY Vaccine (MenACWY)?
Meningococcal disease is caused by a bacterium spread through close contact — coughing, sneezing and kissing — and through living in close quarters. It can lead to meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) and septicaemia (blood poisoning), which can develop within hours and be life-threatening.
The MenACWY vaccine protects against four groups of the bacteria (A, C, W and Y). It is a condition of entry for pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj and Umrah, and is recommended for travel to parts of sub-Saharan Africa and for some students and other groups at higher risk.
Risk areas
Higher-risk areas include the 'meningitis belt' of sub-Saharan Africa — a band of countries from Senegal in the west to Ethiopia in the east — particularly during the dry season from around December to June. Outbreaks can also occur where large numbers of people gather in close quarters, such as the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages in Saudi Arabia.
Risk for travellers
Risk is higher for pilgrims attending Hajj or Umrah, travellers to the African meningitis belt (especially during the dry season and for longer or rural stays), and people living in close quarters such as students in halls of residence. Saudi Arabia requires proof of MenACWY vaccination for pilgrims. Vaccination is recommended for these groups, and we can issue confirmation of vaccination for your records.
What are the symptoms of Meningitis ACWY Vaccine (MenACWY)?
- Sudden high fever
- Severe headache
- Stiff neck
- Dislike of bright light
- A rash that doesn't fade when pressed (a sign of blood poisoning)
- Drowsiness, confusion, or being difficult to wake
How does the Meningitis ACWY Vaccine (MenACWY) work?
The MenACWY vaccine is given as a single injection and protects against four groups of meningococcal bacteria. Protection lasts around five years. For Hajj and Umrah, the certificate is generally required to be dated at least 10 days before arrival in Saudi Arabia, and within the validity period set by the authorities — so it's important to plan ahead. We provide the vaccine and confirmation of vaccination at our clinic.
Book your appointment for Meningitis ACWY Vaccine (MenACWY) right now.
Who should have the MenACWY vaccine?
MenACWY vaccination is recommended — and sometimes required — for several groups of travellers:
- Pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah (it is a condition of entry)
- Travellers to the African meningitis belt, especially during the dry season or for longer/rural stays
- Students, particularly those starting university and living in halls of residence
- Anyone spending time in crowded, close-contact settings in higher-risk areas
Hajj and Umrah requirements
Saudi Arabia requires pilgrims to show proof of MenACWY vaccination. The certificate generally needs to be dated at least 10 days before you arrive, and within the validity period set by the authorities.
Requirements can be updated each year, so it's wise to be vaccinated in good time and to keep your certificate with your travel documents. We issue confirmation of vaccination at the time of your appointment.
Possible side effects
The vaccine is well tolerated, with mild and short-lived side effects:
- Soreness, redness or swelling at the injection site
- Headache or tiredness
- A mildly raised temperature
- Serious reactions are very rare
Know the signs and act fast
Meningococcal disease can progress quickly, so it's important to recognise the warning signs even after vaccination (which covers four groups but not every type):
- Seek urgent medical help for a high fever with a severe headache and stiff neck
- A rash that does not fade under gentle pressure is a medical emergency
- Don't wait for all symptoms to appear — get help early
- Tell medical staff where you have travelled
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
By destination
Where we recommend the Meningitis ACWY Vaccine (MenACWY)
Travelling somewhere specific? This vaccine is commonly advised for these destinations — open any guide for the full travel-health picture.
Keep exploring