Vaccine (Meningococcal conjugate vaccine)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
MenACWY is a vaccine (injection) that helps your body build protection against four types of meningococcal bacteria (groups A, C, W, and Y) that cause meningitis, a dangerous infection of the brain and spinal cord covering.
Activates humoral and cellular immune responses by presenting conjugated meningococcal polysaccharide antigens (serogroups A, C, W, Y) to B and T lymphocytes, generating opsonizing antibodies and immunological memory against capsular epitopes of *Neisseria meningitidis*.
Prevention of meningitis (brain fever) and prevention of blood poisoning (septicaemia) caused by meningococcal bacteria, especially important during meningitis outbreaks common in northern Nigeria and the 'meningitis belt'
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you or your child missed a scheduled dose or booster, go to your healthcare provider as soon as you remember. There is no need to restart the whole course; just continue from where you stopped. The sooner you get it, the sooner you are protected.
Only receive this vaccine at a registered hospital, health centre, or approved vaccination campaign, never buy vaccines from roadside sellers or unregistered pharmacies, as proper cold storage is critical. During meningitis season (dry, dusty Harmattan period) in northern Nigeria, do not wait for an outbreak before getting vaccinated. Keep your vaccination card safe as proof of immunisation, especially if travelling for Hajj or to countries that require it.
If you are taking medicines that weaken your immune system (like steroids or cancer drugs), the vaccine may not work as well, so tell your doctor. Other routine vaccines can usually be given at the same time but at different injection sites. There are no known food or alcohol interactions, but it is wise to be well-rested before vaccination.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Meningococcal with your other drugs?
Consult your doctor before receiving this vaccine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding; it should only be given during pregnancy if clearly needed and the benefit outweighs the risk.
This vaccine must be stored in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C and should not be frozen. It should not be exposed to heat or direct sunlight, which is especially important in Nigeria's hot climate. This is why you should only receive it at a proper hospital or clinic where cold chain storage is maintained. Keep out of reach of children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.