Meningococcal Meningitis Vaccine
Meningococcal Meningitis vaccine protects against Neisseria meningitidis, a bacterium that causes meningitis and septicemia. These infections can lead to serious complications such as brain damage, hearing loss, limb amputation, and even death.
We offer Meningitis ACWY vaccines for annual Islamic pilgrimages to the holy city of Makkah (Mecca) in Saudi Arabia.
Meningococcal Vaccine Is For You If:
- • You’re travelling to Mecca for Hajj or Umrah (required by Saudi Arabia)
- • You’re travelling to sub-Saharan Africa
- • You’ve weakened immune systems (HIV, spleen issues, sickle cell)
- • You’re on Eculizumab medication
- • You’ve close contacts to meningococcal disease patients
If you think you’re among the high-risk groups, please consult your doctor for advice.
Get Your Meningococcal Certification
Upon completion of your vaccination, we will issue both soft copy and physical certificates of immunisation.
After The Meningococcal Vaccine | Possible Side Effects
- • May feel faint after the vaccination
- • Pain, redness and swelling at the injection site
- • Crying, irritability, sleepiness in children
- • Headache
See a doctor if these side effects do not get better or become worse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Meningococcal Vaccine
Avoid it if you’re experiencing an illness or have had an allergic reactions to the vaccine or its components. Consult your doctor to assess suitability if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have underlying health conditions.
Different Meningococcal Meningitis Vaccines protect against various strains. Meningococcal quadrivalent (MenACWY) covers serogroups A, C, W, and Y whereas Meningococcal B (MenB) targets serogroup B. Consult your doctor to get advice on the best choice for you.
The Meningococcal Meningitis Vaccines offer effectiveness up to 85-90% against the specific strains they target. However, they do not cover every strain of the bacteria, and immunity might decrease over time, making booster shots required.
Its duration depends on the vaccine type. Meningococcal quadrivalent (MenACWY) protects against four strains for around 5 years after the initial vaccination. Since individual responses vary and immunity can decline, talk to your doctor to see if a booster shot is recommended to maintain your defense against this serious illness.
While it is generally safe for co-administration, it’s always best to discuss any concerns with your doctor before receiving the Meningococcal Meningitis Vaccine alongside other vaccines. Your doctor may recommend spacing out the Meningococcal Meningitis Vaccine from certain other vaccines, depending on your individual situation.
It is ideal to get the Meningococcal Meningitis vaccine at least 10 days before departure to allow your body time to build immunity. However, some situations may require a longer wait, especially if multiple doses are needed. Consult your doctor to determine the specific vaccine, dosage, and recommended waiting period based on your trip and health.
The Meningitis Belt in sub-Saharan Africa, stretching from Senegal to Ethiopia, carries the greatest risk. Countries like Burkina Faso, Chad, and Niger fall within this zone. Travellers to these areas, especially those attending large gatherings or staying for extended periods, are at increased risk and should receive the Meningococcal Meningitis vaccination.
It’s mandatory for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims in Saudi Arabia to show a valid Meningococcal quadrivalent (MenACWY) vaccine certificate. It is recommended to check the required documents needed for the destination you are going to as certain African countries might have mandatory requirements depending on the current risk and your travel history.
