Your one stop Vaccination Clinic

Meningitis Vaccine

Meningitis Vaccine for Travel

We provide a full range of travel vaccinations and medication

Meningitis

Meningococcal disease is a serious infection caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis, which leads to inflammation of the brain lining (the meninges). There are six disease-causing serogroups: A, B, C, W, Y and X. The infection spreads through prolonged or frequent direct contact with respiratory secretions from an infected person, including via aerosols and droplets. Epidemics are common in sub-Saharan Africa and during religious pilgrimages to Saudi Arabia. If you are travelling to Saudi Arabia, a vaccination certificate may be required. Please note that only the MenC vaccine is routinely offered in UK schools. A single dose provides protection for 3 to 5 years, depending on visa requirements.

Vaccination Pricing

£55 Per dose
£55 Per Course

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

  • High risk of complications and fatality

  • Septicaemia

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.

Hawne Chemist & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 0121 501 3518

Email: westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

177 Stourbridge Rd, Halesowen, B63 3UD

Bills Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01384 872117

Email: westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

29 High St, Kinver, Stourbridge, DY7 6HF

Millard and Bullock Chemist & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01902 883 182

Email: westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

Castle Street, Bilston, WV14 9DD

The Vaccination

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

Meningitis is a serious medical condition characterised by inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other microorganisms, but bacterial and viral meningitis are the most common forms. Bacterial meningitis is usually more severe and can lead to long-term complications or death if not treated promptly, while viral meningitis tends to be milder and often resolves without specific treatment. Meningitis can affect individuals of any age, but babies, young children, teenagers, and young adults are at the highest risk. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to reduce the risk of severe outcomes, including brain damage, hearing loss, or limb amputation.

Meningitis spreads primarily through close or prolonged contact with an infected person, often via respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, kissing, or sharing utensils. Some forms, particularly meningococcal meningitis, can be carried harmlessly in the throat but become dangerous when the bacteria enter the bloodstream. Prevention largely relies on vaccination, which is highly effective against several types of bacterial meningitis, including meningococcal (A, C, W, Y, and B), pneumococcal, and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). Maintaining good hygiene, avoiding sharing personal items, and seeking prompt treatment for respiratory infections can also reduce risk. In outbreak situations, antibiotic prophylaxis may be offered to close contacts of a confirmed case.

Symptoms of meningitis can appear suddenly and progress rapidly. In adults and older children, common symptoms include a high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, sensitivity to light (photophobia), confusion, drowsiness, and seizures. In babies and young children, signs may include irritability, poor feeding, high-pitched crying, vomiting, a bulging soft spot on the head (fontanelle), and being difficult to wake. A distinctive non-blanching rash may also appear in cases of meningococcal meningitis; this is a medical emergency. As meningitis can worsen within hours, immediate medical attention is critical if it is suspected.

The duration of protection depends on the specific meningitis vaccine. The MenACWY vaccine, commonly given to teenagers and young adults, offers protection for around 5 years, after which a booster may be needed for those still at risk. The MenB vaccine, given in infancy in the UK, provides strong protection for young children, though the longevity of immunity into adolescence is still being studied. The Hib and pneumococcal vaccines also provide long-lasting immunity as part of the routine childhood vaccination schedule. Travellers and those at higher risk may require boosters or additional doses depending on the destination and their vaccination history.

Certain meningitis vaccines are recommended for travel to specific countries. The MenACWY vaccine is required for all travellers performing the Hajj or Umrah pilgrimages to Saudi Arabia and is recommended for those visiting parts of sub-Saharan Africa’s “meningitis belt”, particularly during the dry season (typically December to June). This region includes countries such as Niger, Nigeria, Chad, Burkina Faso, and Mali. Vaccination may also be advised for long-term travellers, aid workers, and healthcare professionals operating in high-risk regions. Always consult a travel health professional at least 6 to 8 weeks before departure.

Meningitis vaccines are generally safe and well tolerated. Common side effects include soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site, mild fever, and tiredness, particularly in young children. Some people may experience a headache, muscle aches, or irritability. Serious allergic reactions are extremely rare. The MenB vaccine may cause a high fever in infants, which is why paracetamol is often recommended at the time of vaccination. Overall, the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks, especially considering the potentially devastating consequences of meningitis. Individuals with known allergies or medical conditions should consult their GP or travel clinic before receiving any vaccine.

Use the map below to identify areas of risk for travel.

Simply call the clinic of your choice or send us an email enquiry, and our travel specialists will get back to you as soon as possible.

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The West Midlands Travel Clinic offers a wide range of vaccines and travel vaccinations.

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Same Day Appointments

We are pleased to offer same-day appointments at the West Midlands Travel Clinic, to ensure you receive prompt and efficient care when you need it most.

Expert Pharmacists

Our team includes expert pharmacists who are dedicated to providing you with personalised and professional healthcare advice.

Competitive Pricing

We offer competitive pricing on our vaccinations to ensure that essential healthcare is both affordable and accessible to everyone.

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