Protect yourself from meningitis with ACWY

Get protected against meningococcal ACWY with a quick MenACWY vaccine at South Ealing Pharmacy in Ealing today.

  • Covers four strains
  • Single quick dose
  • Accepted for travel
South Ealing Pharmacy

Who needs MenACWY protection

Meningitis can be fast and serious. The MenACWY vaccine helps protect against four meningococcal groups linked to meningitis and blood poisoning. Protection matters for teenagers, students and many travellers in West London.

Teenagers are routinely offered MenACWY at school around ages thirteen to fourteen. If you missed it, you can still have it up to age twenty five. One dose is usually enough for most people.

If you are starting university and are under twenty five, get vaccinated at least two weeks before you move. If you have already started, arrange it as soon as you can. Crowded settings raise risk.

Travellers to some countries and those attending large religious pilgrimages often need proof of MenACWY. Certificates are accepted only after a set number of days and remain valid for several years depending on the vaccine type. Plan ahead.

The vaccine is given as an injection in the upper arm. Mild reactions like a sore arm, headache or feeling unwell can occur and usually settle quickly. The vaccine does not contain live bacteria.

South Ealing Pharmacy

Starting university or college soon?

Moving into shared housing and busy lectures increases close contact. Vaccination reduces the chance of serious disease and helps protect friends and family.

  • Check if you had MenACWY at school
  • If under twenty five, book two weeks before term
  • Keep your records safe for future checks
  • Ask about other vaccines you may need

Travel plans or pilgrimage coming up

Some destinations and pilgrimages require proof of MenACWY. Certificates are only valid after a minimum wait and for a limited period based on vaccine type.

  • Book early to meet entry rules
  • Bring your passport details to your appointment
  • Keep the certificate with your travel documents
  • Ask when a future booster might be needed
South Ealing Pharmacy

Be ready for uni or travel

Quick appointments, clear advice and certificates where needed. Protect yourself and those around you with a simple MenACWY visit today.

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How it Works

Trusted Healthcare in the Heart of ealing

  • Book your appointment

    Choose the service you need - travel vaccinations, flu jabs, medication reviews or more and book online, by phone or in person in under a minute.

  • Attend your consultation

    Enjoy a one-to-one consultation. Our experienced pharmacists will listen, answer every question and design the right care for you.

  • Receive treatment

    Leave with your prescriptions, vaccines or personalised health advice—all dispensed on the spot. We’ll make sure you have everything you need to feel confident and well.

Testimonials

What Our Patients Say

Fast appointment and practical guidance on when my certificate expires. Very reassuring throughout.

Booked for my teen before college. Staff were patient and kind. We felt well looked after.

Professional and calm experience. I barely felt the injection and got clear aftercare tips

Booked before moving into halls. Friendly team and it took minutes. Helpful advice on keeping records for uni.

Testimonials

What Our Patients Say

Frequently Asked Questions

South Ealing Pharmacy
  • What does MenACWY protect against?

    It helps protect against four meningococcal groups called A C W and Y that can cause meningitis and blood poisoning. It does not protect against every type.

  • Who should have this vaccine?

    It is recommended for teenagers, first time university students under twenty five, and people with certain risks including travel.

  • When should students get it?

    If you are under twenty five and have not had it, aim for at least two weeks before starting university. If you already started, get it as soon as possible.

  • Is it required for Hajj or Umrah?

    Yes, proof of MenACWY is required. The certificate is valid only after a minimum of ten days and lasts three to five years depending on the vaccine type.

  • How many doses do I need?

    Most people need one dose. Some jobs with ongoing risk may need a booster every five years.

  • What side effects should I expect?

    A sore arm, headache, nausea or feeling unwell can occur and usually pass quickly. Serious allergic reactions are very rare.

  • Can I have it with other vaccines?

    Yes, it can be given at the same visit as other vaccines like MMR or the teenage booster.

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