Meningitis ACWY vaccine

In year 9 of school, children are eligible for the MenACWY vaccine. 

Meningococcal disease

Meningococcal disease is rare, but very serious, and requires urgent hospital treatment. It can lead to life-changing disabilities such as amputations, brain damage, and hearing loss. It is caused by meningococcal bacteria which are divided into several groups. The most common are A, B, C, W and Y.

Infants, young children, teenagers and young adults have the highest risk of meningococcal disease. Meningococcal bacteria can cause meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain) and septicaemia (when the bacteria enter the bloodstream to cause blood poisoning).

Both diseases are very serious and can kill, especially if not diagnosed early. Both meningitis and septicaemia can trigger sepsis. Sepsis is an overwhelming and life-threatening immune response to any infection and can lead to tissue damage, organ failure and death.

The benefits of vaccination

Older teenagers and young adults are at higher risk of getting meningococcal disease. The MenACWY vaccine is a safe and very effective vaccine that has been part of the routine teenage programme since 2015. The MenACWY vaccine was used as travel vaccine for many years before it was introduced into the routine immunisation schedule. It also reduces the risk of other people around you becoming infected. You may have had MenC vaccination as a baby but this will not protect you against other meningococcal groups.

The MenACWY vaccine will increase your protection against Men A, C, W and Y. This vaccine will not protect you against all forms of meningococcal disease, like MenB, so it is still important to be aware of signs and symptoms. Your child will be given a meningitis symptom card after they have been given their Meningitis ACWY vaccine.