Meningococcal Meningitis
Meningococcal meningitis is one of the vaccines we offer at Chappells Pharmacy. As a local and established travel clinic in Crowborough you can trust we will deliver exceptional service.
Meningococcal Meningitis Vaccine at Chappells Pharmacy
Protect yourself and your family against Meningococcal meningitis, a serious bacterial infection that causes inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. Chappells Pharmacy offers professional vaccination services to ensure your peace of mind, whether you’re travelling to high-risk areas or require protection for other reasons.
What is Meningococcal Meningitis?
Meningococcal meningitis is a severe bacterial infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis bacteria. This potentially life-threatening condition inflames the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The bacteria are primarily spread through:
- Close and prolonged contact with respiratory secretions of infected individuals
- Droplets from the nose or throat (coughing, sneezing)
- Sharing eating utensils, drinking vessels, or cigarettes
- Living in crowded conditions (university halls, military barracks)
Symptoms develop rapidly and may include severe headache, fever, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, confusion, and a distinctive rash that doesn’t fade when pressed with a glass. Without prompt treatment, meningococcal meningitis can lead to permanent disabilities, hearing loss, brain damage, seizures, limb amputations, and death in approximately 10-15% of cases.
There are several groups of meningococcal bacteria that cause disease, with groups A, B, C, W, Y, and X being responsible for most cases. The distribution of these groups varies globally, with certain regions having higher rates of specific strains.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
The Meningococcal meningitis vaccine is strongly recommended for:
- Travellers to the ‘meningitis belt’ of sub-Saharan Africa, particularly during the dry season (December to June)
- Pilgrims attending the Hajj or Umrah in Saudi Arabia (vaccination certificate required)
- University students, especially first-year students living in halls of residence
- People with certain medical conditions (such as those without a functioning spleen)
- Laboratory workers regularly exposed to meningococcal bacteria
- People living with or in close contact with someone with meningococcal disease
- Military recruits
- Those travelling to areas with current outbreaks
- People with HIV or certain immune deficiencies
- Anyone wishing to protect themselves against this serious and potentially fatal disease
Why Choose Chappells Pharmacy?
Trusted Experts
Our pharmacists are fully trained and experienced in vaccine administration, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care throughout your vaccination journey.
Affordable Prices
We believe in offering top-quality healthcare without breaking the bank. Our vaccination services are priced to be accessible for everyone.
Comprehensive Care
We provide full consultations before vaccination, answering all your questions and ensuring the vaccine is appropriate for your specific circumstances.
Vaccine Administration and Schedule
We offer different meningococcal vaccines depending on your needs:
Our pharmacists will assess your specific risk factors and travel plans to recommend the most appropriate vaccine for your circumstances.
Side Effects and Safety
The Meningococcal vaccines are considered safe and effective, with most side effects being mild and temporary. Common reactions may include:
- Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Mild fever
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle and joint pain
- Nausea
Severe side effects are extremely rare. Our pharmacists are available to answer any questions or concerns about vaccine safety.
How to Book Your Appointment
Whether you’re planning travel to high-risk areas or require protection for university, we can help ensure you’re protected against meningococcal meningitis:
Booking your Meningococcal meningitis vaccination at Chappells Pharmacy is easy:
- Visit us in-store.
- Contact us by phone or email.
- Arrange your preferred appointment time online.
Protect yourself today—your health and wellbeing matter to us at Chappells Pharmacy.
FAQs About Meningococcal Meningitis Vaccine
There are many questions about the Meningococcal meningitis vaccine, we have selected frequently asked questions about this service. If you do not see your answer, please contact us.
