Meningitis ACWY vaccine.
The meningitis ACWY vaccine protects against four strains of meningococcal bacteria and is a mandatory entry requirement for pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah. It is also recommended for travel to parts of Africa’s meningitis belt. One injection, with a certificate provided for your records. Available with our GPhC-registered pharmacist, no GP referral needed.
What the vaccine protects against, and who needs it.
Meningococcal disease is a bacterial infection spread through close contact and respiratory droplets. It can cause meningitis, an infection of the lining around the brain and spinal cord, and septicaemia, a serious blood infection. The ACWY vaccine protects against four of the strains responsible, groups A, C, W and Y. Crowded conditions, such as those found during mass gatherings, increase the risk of spread.
For pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah, this vaccine is a compulsory entry requirement, not just a personal protection recommendation. A valid certificate showing the vaccine was given at least 10 days before arrival must be presented at the border. The vaccine is also commonly recommended for travel to parts of Sub-Saharan Africa’s meningitis belt, particularly during the dry season from December to June.
Is the meningitis ACWY vaccine right for you?
A mandatory entry requirement into Saudi Arabia, needed by all pilgrims aged one year and over, and by seasonal workers in Hajj areas.
Commonly recommended for countries across Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly during the dry season from December to June.
Crowded conditions anywhere increase the risk of meningococcal spread through close contact.
If it has been close to 5 years since your last conjugate ACWY vaccine and you are travelling again, revaccination may be recommended.
We provide a signed and dated vaccination record suitable for Saudi Arabia entry checks.
Full price list available on this page ↓. Prices subject to change, please confirm at the clinic.
How your meningitis ACWY vaccination works.
Single injection
One dose, given into the upper arm. If you are travelling for Hajj or Umrah, this must be given at least 10 days before your arrival in Saudi Arabia.
Protection develops within around 2 weeks
This is also why the 10-day pre-arrival window is required for entry purposes, to allow time for both immunity and paperwork to be in order.
Certificate issued
You receive a signed, dated record of your vaccination, showing the vaccine name and type, suitable for presenting at border checks.
Valid for up to 5 years
The conjugate ACWY vaccine is generally considered valid for entry purposes for up to 5 years. Your Halaxy record helps us track when a booster may be needed for future travel.
Book your meningitis ACWY vaccine.
Same-day and same-week appointments often available. Can usually be given alongside your other travel vaccines in one visit.
Opening hours
Mon–Fri 9am–5pm · Sat & Sun 9am–5pm (private services only)
Call us
113 Chester Road, Sunderland SR4 7HG · GPhC Registered
Book — Meningitis ACWY Vaccination
Veritas Pharmacy · 113 Chester Road, Sunderland SR4 7HG
Meningitis ACWY vaccine prices.
Price per dose. Prices are subject to change, please confirm at the clinic before booking.
| Vaccine | Course | Price per dose |
|---|---|---|
| Meningitis ACWY – certificate provided | 1 dose, valid up to 5 years | £55.00 |
Meningitis ACWY vaccine FAQs.
Is the meningitis ACWY vaccine compulsory for Hajj and Umrah?
How long is the vaccine valid for entry purposes?
Do I need this vaccine for destinations other than Saudi Arabia?
How many doses do I need?
Will I get a certificate?
Are there any side effects?
Can I have this vaccine alongside other travel vaccines?
Related vaccines and services.
Hepatitis A Vaccine
Also recommended for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, and for many other destinations with food and water hygiene risk.
Learn more →Typhoid Vaccine
A common recommendation for travel to the Middle East and other food and water-borne risk destinations.
Learn more →All Travel Vaccinations
See every destination and vaccine we cover as part of our full pre-travel health service.
Learn more →