At Gilbride Pharmacy, we understand the importance of safeguarding your health while you travel or pursue higher education. Meningitis is a serious concern, and it's crucial to be informed and protected. Fortunately, the meningitis ACWY vaccination provides you with the protection you need.
What is Meningitis?
Meningitis comes in several forms, including types A, C, W and Y, all caused by bacterial infections, particularly Neisseria meningitidis. Unlike viral meningitis, bacterial meningitis is extremely dangerous, causing inflammation of the protective membranes around the brain and spinal cord. This can lead to severe brain damage.
Meningitis can be transmitted through close contact, such as coughing, sneezing or even kissing.
Regrettably, around 10% of meningitis patients may succumb to the infection even with treatment. Symptoms vary but typically include a severe headache, high fever and vomiting. Stiff neck, light sensitivity and exhaustion are also common. A telltale sign of meningitis is a skin rash, although not all cases exhibit this symptom. Alongside the traditional meningitis C vaccine, the meningitis ACWY vaccine provides comprehensive protection against all four strains in its name. This makes it particularly suitable for travellers who may be at risk of any of these four types.
Travel Safely
If you have travel plans abroad, it's essential to assess whether your destination falls within a meningococcal meningitis risk zone. Sub-Saharan Africa, often referred to as the meningitis belt, is a region where meningitis, primarily type A, poses a significant threat. Nevertheless, recent outbreaks of types W, X and C have also occurred.
Meningitis Certificate Certain countries, such as Saudi Arabia, require a meningitis ACWY certificate for entry, especially for the Hajj pilgrimage. Our pharmacies are approved providers for The Muslim Council for Britain, ensuring your compliance with this requirement. Please note that the certificate becomes valid ten days after vaccination.
Students For students entering university for the first time, receiving a single dose of meningitis ACWY is strongly recommended.
When to Get Vaccinated For those planning to visit a risk area, it's best to receive the vaccination at least two weeks before your travel date.
Course The vaccination regimen consists of a single dose.
Children The vaccine can be administered from birth.
Additional Precautions Early treatment is critical. If you or a fellow traveller display symptoms of meningitis, seek immediate medical attention. Please be aware that the ACWY vaccine does not protect against meningitis B.
Cost Our meningitis ACWY vaccination is available for £50. Additionally, we offer the meningitis B Vaccination at £105 per dose.
Side Effects After receiving the meningitis ACWY vaccination, you may experience side effects like fever, nausea, headaches, fatigue or skin irritation at the injection site. Some individuals may develop a small lump at the injection site, which typically resolves within a few weeks. If you encounter other side effects or if your symptoms persist, please consult a healthcare professional. In cases of a high fever exceeding 38.5 degrees Celsius lasting more than 24 hours, medical attention is necessary, and reporting is advised.
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