Travellers should have the MenACWY vaccine to protect themselves from meningitis, an illness of the lining of the brain and spine that can be transferred through sneezing, coughing, or direct contact with respiratory secretions. Stay with us to learn about getting the meningitis ACWY vaccination in Cheltenham.
Who may get the MenACWY vaccine in Cheltenham, and what does it prevent?
The meningococcal conjugate vaccination, also known as MenACWY, protects against a potentially fatal disease caused by four meningococcal bacteria: A, C, W, and Y.
Infants, adolescents, and the young population of the UK should be vaccinated due to an increase in MenACWY infections.
You should also get vaccinated if you are a long-term traveller who will be in close touch with the local community.
People with specific medical conditions that render them immunocompromised are also encouraged to acquire the MenACWY vaccine, per the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The MenACWY vaccine is recommended for anyone who will be going to regions where meningococcal disease outbreaks are common, such as some regions of Africa and Saudi Arabia, in preparation for the annual Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.
Seasonal workers need a valid MenACWY vaccination certificate to enter Saudi Arabia.
Which countries mandate meningitis ACWY vaccinations?
It is sufficient to receive a single upper-arm injection of quadrivalent conjugate vaccination 2 to 3 weeks before travelling to high-risk countries like sub-Saharan Africa, even during the dry season.
Young children, those aged one year or younger, require two doses.
According to the study, transmission peaks in early adolescence in Africa and late adolescence in Europe.
Exactly how long do the protective effects of the ACWY meningitis vaccine last?
You can get vaccinated against certain strains of meningococcal disease through the regular NHS immunisation regimen. However, the NHS does not offer this service for international travel.
The MenACWY vaccine is recommended for people who have already been immunised with MenC conjugate vaccine since it protects you for at least five years without a booster shot.
However, a valid vaccination certificate is necessary to enter some countries, including Saudi Arabia. A booster dose of conjugated vaccine is required to extend the duration of protection to 8 years.
Are meningococcal disease and MenACWY the same?
Meningococcal vaccinations can be divided into two categories:
- All infants, adolescents, and college students should receive the meningococcal conjugate vaccine, often known as MenACWY.
- People with impaired immune systems should have the meningococcal serogroup B (MenB) vaccine.
Are there any risks associated with the Meningitis ACWY vaccine in Cheltenham?
Before being given a MenACWY UK license, the vaccine was subjected to a battery of rigorous safety studies.
Itching, redness, swelling, and discomfort at the injection site are common adverse effects.
Fever, headache, irritability, nausea, and tiredness may also occur, but they often subside within 24 hours.
You should exercise caution if you have a history of allergic reactions or a current severe sickness with a high temperature.
Can you get bacterial meningitis protection from the ACWY vaccine?
The meningitis ACWY vaccination protects against four meningococcal diseases: types A, C, W, and Y.
Schedule a visit to the Cheltenham Travel Clinic to get vaccinated today.
