From 6 weeks of age. Free on the NHS at 13 to 14 and until your 25th birthday. Required for Hajj and Umrah, and advised for the African meningitis belt.
Last reviewed 12 September 2026UK Green Book ch. 22Non-live vaccine
Who can have it
Eligibility by age, on the NHS and privately
MenACWY protects against four strains of meningococcal bacteria that cause meningitis and blood poisoning. Teenagers get it on the NHS because they are the group most likely to carry and spread the bacteria. Adults have it for travel, and Saudi Arabia requires a certificate for pilgrims.
Check what applies to you
Pick your age range and gender to see only the criteria for your group. Nothing you select is saved or sent anywhere.
Age
Privately (pharmacy or clinic)
On the NHS
Under 2 years
PrivatelyRestrictions apply
From 6 weeks with Nimenrix (two doses under 1 year); MenQuadfi from 12 months
On the NHSNot offered
Not part of the routine infant schedule (babies get MenB instead). Available for travel to high-risk areas.
2 to 17 years
Privately✓Available
Single dose
On the NHSFree for some
Free at age 13 to 14 in school (Year 9). Anyone who missed it can catch up free until their 25th birthday.
18 to 49 years
Privately✓Available
Single dose; certificate valid 5 years for Hajj/Umrah
On the NHSFree for some
Free until your 25th birthday if you missed it, especially first-time university students. Otherwise private, including for Hajj, Umrah and travel.
50 to 64 years
Privately✓Available
Single dose
On the NHSNot offered
Not offered on the NHS. Private for travel and pilgrimage.
65 and over
Privately✓Available
Single dose
On the NHSNot offered
Not offered on the NHS. Private for travel and pilgrimage.
Recommended for
All teenagers at 13 to 14 and anyone under 25 who missed it
Pilgrims travelling for Hajj or Umrah (a certificate dated 10 days to 5 years before arrival is mandatory)
Travellers to the meningitis belt of sub-Saharan Africa, especially in the dry season
People with no spleen or certain immune conditions (via their GP)
Who should not have it
A previous serious allergic reaction to a meningococcal vaccine or one of its ingredients
If you have a fever, the vaccine is usually postponed
Always tell the clinician about allergies, medicines, health conditions and recent vaccines. They will confirm the vaccine is right for you before giving it.
About the vaccine
What it protects against, how long it lasts and side effects
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Protects against
Bacterial meningitis and septicaemia caused by meningococcal strains A, C, W, and Y.
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When to have it
At least 2–3 weeks before travel
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How long it lasts
5–10 years
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Doses
Single dose
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Side effects
Sore arm, mild headache, fatigue, or low-grade fever. Usually resolve within 1–2 days.
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Good to know
Proof of vaccination is a mandatory entry requirement for Saudi Arabia Hajj and Umrah visas.
Common questions
Meningitis ACWY vaccine: your questions answered
Do I need MenACWY for Hajj or Umrah?
Yes. Saudi Arabia requires proof of MenACWY vaccination given at least 10 days and no more than 5 years before arrival. Make sure the clinic issues a certificate with the vaccine name and date.
How long does the MenACWY vaccine last?
Around 5 years for travel and pilgrimage purposes. A booster is needed if you travel again after that.
Can adults get MenACWY on the NHS?
Only up to your 25th birthday if you missed the teenage dose, or if you have a specific medical condition. Otherwise it is a private travel vaccine.
Is this the same as the MenB vaccine?
No. MenB (Bexsero) covers meningococcal group B and is given to babies. MenACWY covers groups A, C, W and Y. They protect against different strains and are separate vaccines.
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GPhC-registered pharmacies and travel clinics. The clinician confirms suitability at your appointment.
General information only. This page sets out the published UK eligibility criteria so you can see which apply to you. It is not medical advice and VaxiGo does not assess your suitability for any vaccine. The clinician at your appointment makes that decision with you.