Meningococcal Vaccine in Ottawa

What Is Meningococcal Meningitis?

Meningococcal disease is an acute, potentially fatal bacterial infection of the blood or brain caused by Neisseria meningitidis. It occurs worldwide, with the highest incidence in the meningitis belt of sub-Saharan Africa (Nigeria to Ethiopia), where large outbreaks occur in the hot dry season (November–June). The disease can be fatal within 12–24 hours of initial symptoms.

Transmission occurs through direct contact with airborne droplets from infected persons or carriers. Approximately 10% of adolescents and adults carry the bacteria without symptoms.

Who Needs It?

Meningococcal vaccination is recommended or required for all travellers to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umra (required — must be received 10 days to 3–5 years before arrival), travellers going to sub-Saharan African meningitis belt countries (especially during dry season), travellers to any country experiencing a current epidemic, healthcare workers travelling to high-risk areas, first-year college students living in dormitories, and long-stay travellers with close contact with local residents.

Symptoms

Symptoms progress rapidly, appearing within 3–4 days of exposure. They include sudden onset of high fever and rash, followed by severe headache, vomiting, neck and back stiffness, altered consciousness, and coma. Half of infected persons develop shock.

Consequences of Infection

Death occurs in more than 70% of untreated cases and in about 15% of treated cases. Survivors may experience deafness, loss of limb, and difficulty concentrating or sleeping. The disease can be fatal within 12–24 hours of the first symptoms.

Vaccine Information

Quadrivalent vaccines (Menactra, Menveo, MenQuadfi) protect against serogroups A, C, W, and Y. Adults and children 2 years and older receive a single dose; a booster is recommended every 3–5 years for continued risk. Meningococcal B vaccines (Bexsero, Trumenba) are separate vaccines for serogroup B, recommended for certain at-risk groups.

Side Effects

Most common: mild injection-site reactions (pain, redness, swelling), headache, fatigue, muscle aches, and fever. Painful swelling of the arm may occur with quadrivalent vaccines. Irritability, nausea, and vomiting are more common in infants and children.

Ottawa Travellers Who Need the Meningococcal Vaccine

The meningococcal vaccine is required or recommended for Ottawa travellers in the following situations:

• Hajj or Umra pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia — required by the Saudi government, administered no more than 3–5 years and no less than 10 days before arrival
• Sub-Saharan Africa (Meningitis Belt) — particularly Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Central African Republic, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, South Sudan, Sudan, and Togo — highest risk during dry season (November to June)
• Kenya, Tanzania — risk exists especially during the dry season and in crowded settings
• Travellers to any country during an active meningococcal outbreak
• First-year post-secondary students moving into dormitory residences

Frequently Asked Questions — Meningococcal Vaccine in Ottawa

Is the meningococcal vaccine required for Hajj or Umra?

Yes — Saudi Arabia requires proof of meningococcal vaccination (quadrivalent ACWY vaccine) for all Hajj and Umra pilgrims. The vaccine must be received no more than 3–5 years before arrival and no less than 10 days before arrival. Orleans Travel Clinic Pharmacy can provide the required vaccination and documentation. Book your virtual consultation well in advance of your departure date.

Which meningococcal vaccine do I need — ACWY or B?

The quadrivalent ACWY vaccine (Menactra, Menveo, or MenQuadfi) covers serogroups A, C, W, and Y — these are the strains required for Hajj and most relevant for travellers to sub-Saharan Africa. The meningococcal B vaccines (Bexsero, Trumenba) protect against serogroup B, which is more prevalent in Canada and Europe, and may be recommended for certain higher-risk groups. Your physician will recommend the appropriate vaccine(s) at your virtual consultation.

How long does the meningococcal vaccine last?

A single dose of quadrivalent ACWY vaccine provides protection for 3–5 years for adults. A booster is recommended after 3–5 years for travellers with ongoing exposure risk, or if your Hajj documentation requires a vaccine received within the last 3 years.

How much does the meningococcal vaccine cost in Ottawa?

The meningococcal vaccine for travel is not covered by OHIP for adults (note: it is provided free to Grade 7 students in Ontario). Vaccine cost will be confirmed by your pharmacist at the time of booking. The virtual consultation fee starts from $60/person.