Meningitis Vaccine Information
Meningitis can occur in epidemics, especially where large crowds are gathered, as it is acquired through direct contact or inhalation of bacteria in droplets coughed or sneezed into the air.
Sporadic cases of meningitis are found worldwide. In temperate zones, most cases occur in the winter months. Localized outbreaks occur in enclosed crowded spaces (e.g. dormitories, military barracks). In sub-Saharan Africa, in a zone stretching across the continent from Senegal to Ethiopia (known as the African meningitis belt), large outbreaks and epidemics take place during the dry season (November - June).
The risk to travellers is generally low. However, the risk is considerable if travellers are in crowded conditions or taking part in large population movements such as pilgrimages eg. the Haj to Mecca. Localized outbreaks occasionally occur among travellers (usually young adults) in camps or dormitories. Backpackers who use crowded hostels will be at greater risk during an outbreak.
There are two vaccines used to protect travellers. The meningitis A + C vaccine and the meningitis ACWY vaccine. The latter is required for pilgrims and seasonal workers visiting Saudi Arabia.Travelers should also try to avoid overcrowded places and close contact with the local population.
Meningococcal meningitis is a potentially serious bacterial infection if it's not treated quickly.
There are different strains of meningococcal bacteria that cause different meningococcal infections. Groups B and C are the most common in the UK, and vaccination against group C meningitis is now part of the childhood vaccination programme. Groups A, Y, and W135 are more common elsewhere in the world.
High Risk Areas:
parts of Africa and Saudi Arabia. Visitors arriving in Saudi Arabia for the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, or to undertake seasonal work in the Hajj area, require proof of vaccination against groups A, C, Y and W135 meningitis.
Vaccination against groups A, C, Y and W135 meningitis is recommended if you are travelling to a high risk area and you will be:
Staying for longer than one month
Backpacking
Living with locals in rural areas
Attending the Hajj or Umrah pilgrimages (religious journeys to Mecca, the centre of the Islamic world) in Saudi Arabia
Doing seasonal work in the Hajj area of Saudi Arabia
There are a number of vaccines that can prevent many cases of viral and bacterial meningitis. They include:
The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination
The meningitis C vaccination
The DTaP/IPV/Hib vaccination, which provides protection against the Hib virus, diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus and polio
The pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV)
Meningitis B
Children should receive these vaccines as part of their childhood vaccination programme. Speak to your GP if you are not sure whether you or your child's vaccinations are up to date.
