What is Meningitis?
Meningitis is a serious infection that causes inflammation of the protective membranes around the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites.
Bacterial meningitis is the most severe and can lead to life-threatening complications if not treated promptly.
The MenACWY vaccine protects against four strains of meningococcal bacteria (A, C, W, and Y), which are responsible for many cases of bacterial meningitis worldwide.
What travel destinations have a high risk of meningitis?
Certain regions have a higher risk of meningococcal disease outbreaks. If you’re traveling to any of the following destinations, you may require the MenACWY vaccine:
- Saudi Arabia – Required for all Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.
- Sub-Saharan Africa – The “meningitis belt” (including countries such as Nigeria, Chad, and Burkina Faso) experiences frequent outbreaks.
- Parts of South America and Asia – Certain regions may pose a risk, especially for long-term travellers or those in close-contact settings.
Always check the latest travel health advice before your trip.
Visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice to find the most up-to-date information about countries recommending and requiring meningitis vaccinations.
Book a Travel Consultation at Smarta Healthcare to understand if you require the Meningitis ACWY vaccination for your trip.
Where can I get a meningitis vaccine?
Smarta Healthcare offers both Meningitis (ACWY) and Meningitis B vaccinations for patients in and around Bedford, Milton Keynes, Luton, Letchworth, Biggleswade, St Neots, Cambridge, Sandy, Hitchin and Huntingdon, or further afield.
Our Travel Health Clinic offers expert advice, travel vaccinations and medicines at our convenient out-of-town location with free parking.
How much does the Meningitis ACWY vaccination cost?
The MenACWY vaccination costs £50 (1 dose is required) and includes the certificate that may be required for entry to some countries which are at high-risk of meningitis.
You may need a booster dose every 5 years.
If you have any questions about required or recommended travel vaccinations, book an Smarta Healthcare travel health consultation at least 8 weeks before your departure date to make sure you’re ready for your trip.
How long before travel do I need a MenACWY vaccination?
It is recommended to get your MenACWY vaccine at least 2-3 weeks before travel to allow your immune system to build protection.
For Hajj and Umrah, vaccination must be received at least 10 days before travel, as proof of vaccination is required for entry into Saudi Arabia.
Make sure you are fully protected during your trip: Book your Smarta Healthcare Travel Health consultation as early as possible before your departure.
Can meningitis be prevented?
The best way to prevent bacterial meningitis is through vaccination.
Other preventive measures include:
- Practicing good hygiene – Wash hands regularly and avoid close contact with infected individuals.
- Avoiding sharing personal items – Such as water bottles, utensils, and toothbrushes.
- Maintaining a strong immune system – By eating a balanced diet and staying healthy.
Book your Travel Health consultation at Smarta Healthcare to protect yourself against Meningitis.
What are the symptoms of meningitis?
Meningitis symptoms can develop rapidly and include:
- Severe headache
- Fever and chills
- Stiff neck
- Sensitivity to light
- Nausea or vomiting
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Cold hands and feet, rapid breathing, or a rash (in severe cases)
If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Who is most at risk from meningitis?
While anyone can develop meningitis, certain groups are at higher risk, including:
- Travellers to high-risk areas
- Hajj and Umrah pilgrims
- Young children and teenagers
- University students living in shared accommodation
- People with weakened immune systems
How do you get meningitis?
Meningitis is caused by infections that spread through:
- Close contact with an infected person
- Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing
- Sharing personal items like cutlery, drinks, or toothbrushes
Certain types of meningitis, such as bacterial meningitis, can be life-threatening – vaccination a crucial step in protection.
Book your Travel Consultation at Smarta Healthcare
How is meningitis spread?
Meningococcal bacteria are spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, kisses, or shares personal items.
While some people can carry the bacteria without symptoms, they can still spread the infection to others.
Vaccination remains the best defence against meningitis, especially for those at risk.
Book your Menginitis (ACWY) vaccination at Smarta Healthcare
Select your destination
Use the tool below to find the recommended vaccinations for your travel destination. Select the continent or the country from the drop down menu. You can then book your appointment at our Smarta Healthcare Clinic.
