Vaccine (Meningococcal polysaccharide vaccine)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Meningococcal ACWY polysaccharide vaccine (sometimes called MPSV4, sold as Mendoz Meningitis Vaccine in Nigeria) is an injection that helps your body build protection against four types of meningitis-causing bacteria (groups A, C, W, and Y) by training your immune system to recognize and fight them.
Activates the adaptive immune response by stimulating B lymphocytes to produce antibodies against meningococcal capsular polysaccharides (serogroups A, C, W, and Y), providing opsonization and complement-mediated bactericidal activity against Neisseria meningitidis infection.
Prevention of meningitis (brain fever), prevention of meningococcal blood infections, protection before travelling to meningitis-prone areas like Northern Nigeria or Saudi Arabia for Hajj/Umrah
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Since this is usually a one-time injection, missing a dose is not common. However, if you were scheduled for a booster and missed it, visit your healthcare provider as soon as possible to get it, as there is no need to restart the vaccination.
Only get this vaccine at a registered hospital, clinic, or approved vaccination centre, and do not buy vaccines from roadside sellers or unregistered pharmacies as they may not have been stored properly. During meningitis outbreaks in Northern Nigeria, ensure your vaccination is up to date. If you are travelling for Hajj or Umrah, get vaccinated at least 10 days before departure as Saudi Arabia requires proof of meningitis vaccination.
If you are taking drugs that weaken your immune system (such as steroids or cancer treatment drugs), the vaccine may not work as well, so tell your doctor. Blood-thinning medications like warfarin may increase bleeding at the injection site. There are no known food or alcohol interactions, but it is wise to avoid alcohol on the day of vaccination.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Meningococcal with your other drugs?
Consult your doctor before taking this vaccine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it should only be given if clearly needed and the benefit outweighs any risk.
This vaccine must be stored in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C. Do not freeze it. Do not leave it in direct sunlight or in hot areas, as Nigerian heat can destroy the vaccine quickly. This is why you should only get it at a proper hospital or clinic that stores vaccines correctly. 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.