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Meningococcal disease
Meningococcal meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain that is caused by a meningococcal bacterium. There are various types of meningococci, of which the most common strains are A, B, C, X, Y and W135. In Belgium, the meningococci ACWY vaccine is included in the basic vaccination schedule. This vaccine does not offer any protection against the other types.
Typical symptoms of meningitis include:
- high fever
- confusion
- headache
- stiff neck
- vomiting
The disease can be treated with antibiotics, but a meningococcal infection can become fatal very quickly.
Infection occurs when you breathe in droplets that are released when an infected person speaks or sneezes or through direct contact, for example kissing.
The risk of a meningococcal infection when travelling is very low.
Risk areas
Meningococcal meningitis occurs all over the world.
The serotypes B and C are most common in Western countries, but an increase in serotypes W and Y has recently been confirmed in some European countries.
In the Meningitis Belt in Sub-Saharan Africa, outbreaks occur each year during the dry season. This was mainly serotype A in the past, but in recent years it has more often been serotypes C and W.
View the mapPrevention
Meningococcal ACWY vaccination
Vaccination is recommended if you are going to be staying in the Meningitis Belt from:
- December to June:
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- And you will be in close contact with the local population.
- Or if you will be staying there for more than four weeks.
- Or you have a condition affecting the spleen or have a poorly functioning spleen.
- Travelling to an area where there is an outbreak.
Vaccination is compulsory for everyone over the age of one year who is doing the hadj and advised for those doing the Umrah in Mecca.
The meningitis ACW135Y vaccine (Nimenrix® or Menveo®) consists of 1 injection. The vaccine offers protection from 10 days after vaccination and this lasts for at least 5 years. For people from 12 years of age who have been vaccinated with Nimenrix®, the duration of protection is at least 10 years.
Different schedules apply for young children.
Since 2023, this vaccine has been administered free of charge as part of the standard immunisation schedule at 15 months of age. A second dose of the meningococcal ACWY vaccine is recommended from the age of 15 year, this is at own cost.
For young persons staying abroad for an extended period to study, a meningococcal ACWY vaccination is recommended if they have not received a dose within the previous 10 years. In some countries, such as the United Kingdom and the United States, international students may be required to provide proof of vaccination against Men ACWY.
Meningococcal B vaccination
The meningococcal B vaccine (Bexsero®, Trumenba®) is currently not part of the standard vaccination schedule in Belgium. However, it may be considered for children, young people and those at increased risk on an individual basis. This vaccine is not specifically recommended for travellers.
In case of symptoms
Seek medical advice if you suffer any symptoms.
Additional information for doctors
