Get your Meningitis Vaccine for Travel at Worcester Travel Clinic

Your one stop Vaccination Clinic

Meningitis Vaccine

We provide a full range of travel vaccinations and medication

Meningitis

Meningococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection that causes inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord, known as meningitis. It’s caused by Neisseria meningitidis and can lead to life-threatening complications if not treated quickly. There are six main strains (A, B, C, W, Y, and X) that can cause illness. The infection spreads through close or frequent contact with the saliva or respiratory droplets of someone carrying the bacteria—such as through coughing, sneezing, or kissing. Outbreaks are most common in parts of sub-Saharan Africa and during large gatherings like the Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia. If you’re travelling to Saudi Arabia, you may need a vaccination certificate for entry. In the UK, children are routinely vaccinated against the C strain, but travel vaccines that cover more strains (such as ACWY) are available and typically protect for 3 to 5 years, depending on your destination’s requirements.

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Vaccination Pricing

£55 Per dose

Signs & Symptoms

Invasive meningococcal disease usually presents as meningitis or septicaemia.

Symptoms of meningitis include:

Meningitis or septicaemia
Neck stiffness
Nausea and vomiting
Sudden onset of fever
Intense headache
Symptoms of septicaemia include: fever, chills, confusion and a rash
High risk of complications and fatality

Symptoms of septicaemia include:

Fever
Chills
Confusion and a rash

Both conditions may progress rapidly and are serious diseases with high risk of complications and fatality.

Claines Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01905 453 703

Email: worcestertravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

Claines Pharmacy 153 Ombersley Rd, Worcester, WR3 7BX

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Evans Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01684 575 216

Email: malverntravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

Evans Pharmacy 231 Worcester Rd, Malvern, WR14 1SU

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The Vaccination

Ages (Years)	Doses Required	Schedule	Time before travel	Boost required at
2 – 85	1	–	10 days	See specialist pharmacist

What is Meningitis?

Meningitis is a serious medical condition that occurs when the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord—known as the meninges—become inflamed, usually due to an infection. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or, more rarely, fungi or parasites. Bacterial meningitis, particularly that caused by Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcal bacteria), is considered the most severe and can be life-threatening without prompt treatment. Viral meningitis tends to be less severe but can still cause significant illness. Meningitis can affect anyone, but babies, young children, teenagers, and young adults are at higher risk.

How does it spread and how to prevent it?

Meningitis caused by Neisseria meningitidis spreads through close contact with respiratory droplets or saliva from an infected person—such as through coughing, sneezing, kissing, or sharing utensils. People can carry the bacteria in their nose or throat without knowing it and still pass it on to others. Prevention includes maintaining good hygiene, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and, most importantly, vaccination. In the UK, meningitis vaccines are part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule, and additional vaccines are recommended for those travelling to high-risk areas.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of meningitis can develop rapidly and should never be ignored. In both children and adults, the most common early signs include a sudden high fever, severe headache, and a stiff neck. Other symptoms may include nausea and vomiting, sensitivity to light (photophobia), confusion, drowsiness, cold hands and feet, rapid breathing, and muscle or joint pain. A distinctive purplish rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass (the “glass test”) is a key warning sign of meningococcal meningitis. In babies and young children, symptoms can be harder to recognise and may include poor feeding, a high-pitched cry, irritability, lethargy, a bulging fontanelle (soft spot on the head), and abnormal breathing patterns. Meningitis can worsen quickly and become life-threatening, so immediate medical attention is essential if symptoms are present.

How long does the vaccine last?

The length of protection offered by meningitis vaccines depends on the specific type received. The MenACWY vaccine, which covers four strains of Neisseria meningitidis (A, C, W, and Y), typically provides immunity for around 3 to 5 years, making it suitable for short- to medium-term travel protection. The MenB vaccine, routinely given to infants in the UK, offers good protection in the early years of life, with booster doses considered for continued protection in certain cases, particularly for at-risk groups. MenC, once commonly used in UK adolescents, has largely been replaced by the broader MenACWY in school immunisation programmes. For those travelling to high-risk areas or taking part in activities with prolonged exposure, booster doses may be recommended to maintain adequate protection.

Countries I need the vaccine for

Meningitis vaccination is strongly recommended or required for travel to certain regions where the disease is more prevalent. The “meningitis belt” of sub-Saharan Africa, which includes countries such as Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Sudan, experiences frequent epidemics—especially during the dry season (December to June). Travellers spending extended time in rural areas or taking part in healthcare, aid work, or religious missions in these countries are particularly advised to get vaccinated. Additionally, Saudi Arabia requires proof of vaccination with the MenACWY vaccine for all individuals attending the Hajj or Umrah pilgrimages, with the certificate being valid for entry if the vaccine was administered within the last five years. Vaccination may also be advised for travel to parts of Asia or Latin America where outbreaks occur, particularly during times of increased transmission.

Vaccine side effects

Meningitis vaccines are generally safe and most side effects are mild and temporary. The most common reactions include pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, along with low-grade fever, fatigue, or headache. In young children, additional side effects may include irritability, reduced appetite, and disturbed sleep. These symptoms typically resolve within 24 to 48 hours. Rarely, individuals may experience more significant reactions such as high fever, allergic responses, or fainting shortly after the injection. Serious side effects, such as anaphylaxis, are extremely uncommon but possible, which is why individuals are usually asked to remain under observation for a short time after vaccination. Those with known allergies to vaccine components or with weakened immune systems should consult their GP or travel health specialist before immunisation. Despite the small risk of side effects, the benefits of meningitis vaccination far outweigh the potential risks, particularly when travelling to high-risk regions.