Meningitis ACWY Vaccine in Longridge, Preston
Meningitis ACWY vaccination, a single dose for students, Hajj and Umrah travellers, and travel to the meningitis belt of Africa.
Suitability is assessed before vaccination. Bring your vaccination records.
At a glance
Ask for advice 4 to 6 weeks before you travel, earlier if you can.
1 dose
Single dose, at least 10 days before travel for Hajj or Umrah.
Around 5 years (Hajj and Umrah certificate validity)
Previous doses, including combined vaccines, may change what you need.
Injection
What is meningitis ACWY?
MenACWY vaccination is best known as a school-age jab, but it is also a Saudi Arabian visa requirement for anyone travelling to Hajj or Umrah, and a sensible precaution for travel to parts of sub-Saharan Africa. We offer the single-dose vaccine at our Longridge clinic, along with the certificate you need for your pilgrimage visa.
MenACWY protects against four strains of the bacteria that cause meningitis and septicaemia (blood poisoning): serogroups A, C, W and Y. Even with treatment, invasive meningococcal disease can be serious, which is why vaccination is recommended for people at higher risk.
Who should have the MenACWY vaccine?
Proof of MenACWY vaccination is a Saudi Arabian visa requirement for anyone travelling for Hajj or Umrah, or for seasonal work in the Hajj areas, so pilgrims need this vaccine before they can enter the country.
It is also recommended for travellers heading to the “meningitis belt” of sub-Saharan Africa, a band of countries stretching from Senegal to Ethiopia, particularly if you are staying with local families, working, or travelling for an extended period.
Students and teenagers are another key group. The NHS routinely offers MenACWY to teenagers in school year 9 (age 13 to 14), with catch-up available up to age 25, and it is recommended before starting university or college, since meningitis can spread more easily in halls of residence and shared accommodation.
Who should consider a meningitis ACWY vaccine?
Your pharmacist confirms what applies to you at your consultation.
For full information, visit the NHS and TravelHealthPro.
Understanding meningitis ACWY: what you need to know
How the infection spreads and what to look out for, so vaccination sits alongside sensible precautions while you are away.
Key fact
Meningococcal disease (meningitis and septicaemia) is rare but can be life-threatening within hours. It spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets, with higher risk in crowded settings such as Hajj and Umrah and in the meningitis belt of Africa.
Recognise the symptoms
Call 999 or go to A&E for a fever with a stiff neck, confusion, or a rash that does not fade when a glass is pressed against it.
Where the meningitis ACWY vaccine is recommended
These are the destinations we publish guides for where this vaccine is commonly advised. Your itinerary decides what applies.
Kenya
Saudi Arabia
Meningitis ACWY Vaccine course and timing
Single dose, at least 10 days before travel for Hajj or Umrah.
Book this vaccinationLeaving sooner?
It is still worth contacting us. Call with your travel dates so we can discuss what may be possible in the time available.
One injection
A single dose, given at least 10 days before you arrive if you are travelling for Hajj or Umrah so it has time to take effect.
Certificate issued
We provide the certificate you need to show with your visa application and at the Saudi border.
Validity for pilgrimage
Saudi authorities consider the vaccine valid for around five years from the date it was given.
For full information, visit the NHS and TravelHealthPro.
NHS or private meningitis ACWY vaccination?
Some travel vaccines are free through a GP surgery after a travel risk assessment. Check that route if it suits your dates, and tell us about anything already arranged so our advice takes it into account.
When the NHS is the right route
The NHS gives MenACWY free to teenagers in school year 9 and to anyone who missed it up to age 25. For Hajj, Umrah or other travel it is a private vaccination.
Why book privately with us
Suitability and what to expect
Your appointment includes a check of your health and previous vaccines, so the product and schedule are right for you, including for children.
Tell us before your appointment
Your pharmacist will explain whether to vaccinate, adjust the timing or seek further advice. Do not stop prescribed medicines before an appointment.
After your vaccination
Pain, swelling or itching where the injection was given is common, and some people have a headache, nausea or feel generally unwell for a day or two. Serious allergic reactions are very rare.
Meningitis ACWY Vaccine cost
Prices are per dose. A follow-up dose is a separate vaccination, so plan for the full course when comparing costs. We confirm the price before anything is given.
£60
per doseDoses: 1 dose
Follow-up doses are separate vaccinations; the product, your previous doses and the assessment decide the course.
What travellers say about our clinic.
Clear advice, friendly pharmacists and appointments that fit around your plans. Here is what our travel customers have shared.
Meningitis ACWY Vaccine questions
Practical answers before you book. Anything specific to your trip is covered at your consultation.
Do I need the MenACWY certificate for Umrah?
Yes. Proof of MenACWY vaccination is a Saudi Arabian visa requirement for anyone travelling for Hajj or Umrah, and you will need to carry your certificate for inspection on arrival.
When should I have the MenACWY vaccine before Hajj or Umrah?
At least 10 days before you travel, so the vaccine has time to take effect before you arrive.
Do university students need the MenACWY vaccine?
It is recommended before starting university or college if you have not already had it, since meningitis can spread more easily in student accommodation. The NHS offers it free to teenagers in school year 9, and to anyone who missed it up to age 25.
Do I need a GP referral for a private vaccination?
No. You can book directly with us for any of the vaccines on this page. Same-day appointments are usually available, and there is no waiting list.
How much do private vaccinations cost?
Individual vaccines range from £40 to £240, and the price includes your appointment with the pharmacist. Meningitis B is priced separately at £140 per dose (£280 for the two-dose course). Get in touch and we will confirm the exact price for the vaccine you need before you book.
Which vaccines can I get free on the NHS instead?
Several, but only for certain ages or groups. Shingles, for example, is free on the NHS from age 65, and whooping cough is offered in pregnancy. If you are not sure whether you already qualify, ask us when you get in touch and we will always tell you honestly rather than sell you something you could get free elsewhere.
Can children have these vaccines?
For suitable vaccines, yes. We will confirm what is appropriate for your child’s age at the appointment. Some services at the clinic, such as blood tests and ear wax removal, are 16 and over, but vaccination age depends on the specific jab.
Is the private vaccine the same as the NHS one?
Yes. We use the same vaccines used in the NHS programmes, for example Shingrix for shingles and the standard MMR vaccine. The difference is convenience and access, not the vaccine itself.
Do you vaccinate for travel?
Travel vaccines are handled separately because the advice depends on where you are going. See our travel health service for hepatitis A, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, Japanese encephalitis and anti-malarial tablets.
How long does each vaccine last?
It varies by vaccine. MMR gives long-lasting protection after two doses; shingles protection is strong but not lifelong; flu is an annual jab. Our pharmacist will explain what to expect for the vaccine you are having.
Can I get more than one vaccine in the same visit?
Often yes, depending on the vaccines. Tell us what you are after when you book and we will advise whether they can be given together or need spacing out.
Other travel vaccinations
Most trips need more than one vaccine. Compare doses and prices across our full range, all given in clinic on Berry Lane.
View all travel vaccinationsSuitability, availability and the number of doses are confirmed at your consultation.
Your meningitis ACWY vaccination.
A clear next step.
Travel vaccination advice on Berry Lane, serving Longridge, Preston and the Ribble Valley.
Longridge Travel Health Clinic54 Berry Ln, Longridge, Preston PR3 3JPGet directions
Have these details to hand.
They help us arrange the right appointment for your trip.
Prefer to talk? Call 01772 439054.