Meningococcal
A bacterial infection spread through close contact that can cause meningitis. Required for pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah, and advised for parts of the African meningitis belt during the dry season.
What it is
Meningococcal disease is a bacterial infection that can cause meningitis (swelling around the brain) or a severe blood infection. It can become life-threatening within hours.
How it spreads
Through close contact — coughing, kissing, sharing drinks, or living in crowded conditions. Outbreaks happen in dorms, military barracks, and large gatherings.
Dosing & timing
- Primary series
- A single shot in your arm.
- Boosters
- Every 5 years if you remain at risk.
- Before you travel
- Get the shot 7 to 10 days before travel so your body has time to build protection.
Who should consider it
CDC recommends meningococcal vaccination for travellers to the African meningitis belt during the dry season (December to June), and for anyone making the Hajj or Umrah pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia, which requires proof of vaccination.
Countries where CDC recommends this
Click any country for its full vaccine list.
Recommended for most travellers
Recommended for some travellers
Side effects and safety
Common (most resolve in a day or two)
- Soreness where the shot was given
- Mild fever
- Headache or feeling tired
Serious but rare
- Severe allergic reaction (very rare)
Who should not get it
Skip it if you have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or vaccine ingredient.
Common questions
Is the Hajj certificate the same as the standard vaccine?
Saudi Arabia requires a quadrivalent vaccine, given at least 10 days before arrival. Most travel clinics use a vaccine that meets that requirement — confirm with your provider.
Do I need this for safari travel in Africa?
Only if you are going to or through the meningitis belt — a strip across Sub-Saharan Africa from Senegal to Ethiopia — during the December to June dry season.
How long does the booster last?
About 5 years in adults. If you keep travelling to risk areas or making pilgrimages, plan a repeat.
Plan ahead: Talk to a travel health doctor 4 to 6 weeks before departure, especially for Hajj or Umrah where documentation rules apply.
Source: CDC — Meningococcal.
Disclaimer:This information is for general guidance only, based on CDC Travelers' Health. It does not replace advice from a qualified travel health professional. Consult a doctor 4–6 weeks before your trip.