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Meningococcal disease is caused by 13 different groups of bacteria. In the UK the predominant groups are MenB, MenC, MenW, and MenY. These bacteria commonly reside in the back of the nose and throat, and around 10 in 100 carriers show no symptoms or illness. This asymptomatic carrier state poses a significant risk, making the disease easy to transmit. The disease spreads through close contact with a carrier. These bacteria can cause severe conditions such as meningitis or septicaemia, which can lead to sepsis and, in some cases, death. While meningococcal infections can affect any age, infants, young children, and teenagers are notably more susceptible.
Meningococcal disease is caused by 13 different groups of bacteria, with MenB, MenC, MenW, and MenY predominant in the UK. The bacteria live in the back of the nose and throat, and around 10 in 100 carriers show no symptoms, which makes the disease easy to transmit. It spreads through close contact and can cause severe conditions such as meningitis or septicaemia, which can lead to sepsis and, in some cases, death. Infants, young children, and teenagers are most susceptible.
The vaccine is recommended for teenagers, who are most likely to carry meningococcal bacteria. It is recommended if you are in school years 9 to 10, were born after 1 September 1996, or are starting university for the first time. The recommendation also extends to overseas students up to the age of 25.
Speak to your doctor first if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have any bleeding or clotting problem, have a high temperature, or have any other concerns.
The MenACWY vaccine is made from the sugar coating on the surface of the four types of meningococcal bacteria. It works by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies against the disease without causing illness, preparing the body's defences to ward off potential meningococcal infections.
