Meningococcal (ACWY) Vaccine
The quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine (ACWY) protects against four strains of Neisseria meningitidis. It is required by Saudi Arabia for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims and strongly recommended for travel to the African meningitis belt during dry season.
What it protects against
Neisseria meningitidis serogroups A, C, W-135, and Y — bacteria causing meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia.
Who should get it
- •All pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah (legally required)
- •Travellers to the African meningitis belt (sub-Saharan Africa from Senegal to Ethiopia) during dry season (December–June)
- •Long-stay students and workers in meningitis-prevalent regions
- •Unvaccinated adults with risk factors (asplenia, complement deficiency)
Not recommended for
- •Severe allergy to vaccine component (rare)
Destinations where Meningococcal (ACWY) is recommended
Full destination guides for Meningococcal (ACWY) travel
Explore our country guides — each covers the full vaccine plan, malaria risk, local health considerations, and FAQs.
Side effects & safety
- Mild soreness at injection site
- Low-grade fever or headache (uncommon)
- Very safe profile
Key facts
- 1Mandatory for Hajj/Umrah visa — you will not be issued a visa without it
- 2Certificate must be less than 3 years old at the time of entry to Saudi Arabia
- 3Quadrivalent (ACWY) only — single-valent A or C are not accepted
Need the meningococcal (acwy) for your trip?
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Book your consultationFrequently asked: Meningococcal (ACWY) Vaccine
Do I need meningitis vaccine for Hajj?
Yes — the Government of Saudi Arabia requires all Hajj and Umrah pilgrims to show proof of quadrivalent (ACWY) meningococcal vaccination received at least 10 days before arrival. It is a visa requirement, not just a health recommendation.
Which meningitis vaccine is accepted for Hajj?
The quadrivalent conjugate vaccines (Menveo, Nimenrix, Menactra) all meet the requirement. Single-valent (A or C only) vaccines are not accepted.
Is the meningitis vaccine covered by provincial health insurance?
Generally no — travel vaccines are typically not covered by OHIP. Many private insurance plans do cover meningococcal vaccination; worth checking.
Explore other travel vaccines
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace an individual medical consultation. Recommendations vary based on your health history, destination, and planned activities. A consultation with our licensed physician is required before any prescription or vaccine is issued.