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Meningococcal ACWY (MenACWY)
Meningococcal disease is a name for any infection caused by bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis. It most commonly presents as Meningitis, sepsis and septicaemia (blood poisoning) which are very serious, potentially life-threatening illnesses.
This vaccine protects against bacteria called “Neisseria meningitidis" types A, C, W and Y.
The Vaccine
Who can have this vaccine?
Adults and children over 1 year.
Doses required
1 dose
Price
Price per dose
£85
Total for all doses
£85
How is it given?
This is an injection in the upper arm or thigh.
Other information
The NHS offers 1 dose of this vaccine to children in school year 9 as part of the routine vaccination programme.
A single dose of the MenACWY vaccine provides long-lasting protection for several years. Studies show that although immunity gradually decreases over time, most people still have some protection 3 to 6 years after vaccination. If a booster dose is given at this stage, it restores very high levels of protection against all four strains of meningococcal bacteria (A, C, W and Y).
As most children receive this vaccine in Year 9, some parents choose to arrange a booster in the later teenage years, particularly if their child is planning to attend university or college, where close living environments can increase the risk of infection.
Please refer to the patient leaflet for full information on this vaccine: