Meningitis ACWY Vaccination
20 mins
£65
About meningitis ACWY
Meningitis ACWY is a form of bacterial meningitis which can be spread through close contact with an infected person or animal. It is most common among young people aged 15-24, although it can affect anyone of any age. The symptoms are similar to those of flu and may include fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, confusion and drowsiness. In some cases, a rash may appear on the skin, known as meningococcal septicaemia.
The meningitis ACWY vaccine helps protect against four strains of bacteria that cause meningitis and septicaemia; Neisseria meningitidis groups A, C, W and Y. The vaccine is given as a single injection containing small amounts of the four strains.
How can you get meningitis ACWY?
The bacteria which cause meningitis are transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets or throat secretions from carriers. Close, prolonged contact promotes spread, such as kissing, sneezing, coughing or living with a carrier.
Transmission of N. meningitidis is facilitated during mass gatherings such as pilgrimages and jamborees. Most infections do not cause clinical disease, and many people carry the bacteria without any symptoms; they may be a reservoir of infection for others. Older teenagers are most likely to carry and spread the meningococcal bacteria.