Meningitis Vaccinations in London
Travelling to Middle East or Africa? Protect yourself against Meningitis
Trusted by:
Basic Information
Infection Method
Meningitis is an extremely serious infection that causes inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. The most common cause is from a virus or bacteria. Meningitis can affect anyone at any time. Meningitis can be transmitted via droplet infection, kissing, sneezing, coughing, this is the most common form of transmission in mass gatherings (Hajj) or people living in very close proximity (university accommodation).
Symptoms
Symptoms appear after approximately 10-21 days after exposure and include:
- Fever
- Headache and muscle pain
- Vomiting
- Sensitivity to light
- Cold hand and feet
- Confusion
- Drowsiness
- Stiff neck
- Pale blotchy skin, rash
Complications of Meningitis
- Ear infection
- Pneumonia
- Diarrhea
- Immunosuppression
Risk Areas
Meningitis disease is found all over the world, but high risk areas include Saharan Africa, known as the Meningitis belt and locations where mass gathering occur e.g Pilgrimages to Saudi Arabia. There are many different strains, Meningitis B and W and C are currently the most common in the UK.
Additional Information
If you are traveling to these areas you should consider having the vaccination, regardless of whether you have already received a meningitis vaccination in the UK.
If you suspect that you have caught meningitis, you must seek immediate medical attention and ring 999 straight away.
Vaccination
Administration Method
We use a conjugate vaccination containing protection against meningitis strains ACWY.
Course
The meningitis ACWY vaccination is administered as a single vaccination.
Length of Protection
Research has revealed that the vaccination may not last longer than 5 years, and it slowly declines over this period.
Special Instructions
If you are travelling to Saudi Arabia for Haj and Mecca, the Vaccination is required 10 days before travel.
Travellers visiting Saudi Arabia and areas of Sub Saharan Africa, India and Asia should consider having this vaccination regardless of whether they have had a childhood Meningitis C jab.
Dose & Price
A single dose is given at a price of £65 per dose.
Side Effects
Side effects include local pain, redness, inflammation, as well as some flu like symptoms.
Suggested Additional Vaccinations
You can inquire about these vaccinations over the phone or through the form when you book your meningitis vaccination.
Rabies
Typhoid
Hepatitis B
FAQs
How soon before travelling should I should I contact you?
Ideally come and see us at least four weeks before you travel, especially if you also need injections against Rabies, Hepatitis B or Japanese Encephalitis. However we always encourage last minute travelers to see us.
What if I’m travelling last minute?
Does immunisation hurt?
What if I have an abnormal reaction?
Do you provide vaccination certificates?
Will I get a vaccination record card?
Meet the Team
Dr Elizabeth Tuckey
Kami Soltysik
Katy Peters
Dr Elizabeth Tuckey
Kami Soltysik