Meningococcal Vaccine Singapore
Prepare for Pilgrimages and Crowded Travel
Conveniently located in Orchard, Tanjong Pagar, Jurong East & Novena
Medically Reviewed By: Dr Jana Lim, Board-Accredited Family Physician
Board-Accredited Family Physician | MBChB, MMed (FM)
MBChB, MMed (FM) | Last updated:
What Is the Meningococcal Vaccine?
The meningococcal vaccine helps your body build immunity against meningococcal disease, a bacterial infection caused by certain strains of Neisseria meningitidis bacteria (types A, C, Y and W-135). Protection against type B needs a separate vaccine, known as MenB.
The bacteria spread mainly through close contact or by breathing in droplets from an infected person's coughs or sneezes. Meningococcal disease is uncommon, but it can cause serious infections such as meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord), bloodstream infection (septicaemia) or lung infection (pneumonia), all of which need emergency treatment.
Meningococcal Disease Symptoms
Symptoms of meningococcal infection typically develop rapidly and may include:
- Sudden severe headache
- High fever
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light
- Stiffness in the neck
- A distinctive rash
In infants, the signs may be less obvious, such as irritability, constant crying or feeding difficulties.
Who Is the Meningococcal Vaccine Recommended for?
This vaccine is generally advised for individuals at greater risk of exposure to meningococcal bacteria, including:
- Pilgrims attending Hajj or Umrah in Saudi Arabia
- Travellers to regions in sub-Saharan Africa
- People with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV or spleen dysfunction
- Individuals in close proximity to a confirmed meningococcal case
- Residents or visitors in outbreak-prone areas
If you are unsure whether the vaccine is appropriate for your health condition or travel plans, it is advisable to consult your doctor for personalised guidance.
How Is the Meningococcal Vaccine Administered?
The vaccine is typically injected into a muscle, often in the upper arm.
Meningococcal Vaccine Dose & Schedule
The recommended vaccination schedule for the meningococcal vaccine varies by age:
| Vaccine | Dose and Schedule |
|---|---|
| MenACWY |
|
| MenB (Trumenba) | 2 doses, 6 months apart (0, 6 months) for individuals aged 10–65 years old |
| MenB (Bexsero) |
For individuals 2 months to 49 years old:
|
Follow-up boosters may be necessary depending on individual medical risk factors and how long protection is required.
Important Note: Trumenba and Bexsero are not interchangeable. If your primary series began with Trumenba, all subsequent doses must also be Trumenba. Switching to Bexsero requires restarting the regimen from the first dose. If you are unsure which MenB vaccine is suitable for you or your child, please contact us for further clarification.
When Should I Be Vaccinated?
It is recommended to receive the meningococcal vaccine at least 10 to 14 days before potential exposure or travel. This allows your immune system sufficient time to develop protection.
How Long Does the Meningococcal Vaccine Last?
Protection from the MenACWY vaccine lasts for around 5 years. For patients at prolonged increased risk for meningococcal disease, the CDC recommends MenB booster doses after completion of the primary series. A booster dose of MenB vaccine is administered 1 year after series completion and then every 2 to 3 years thereafter.
What Precautions Should I Take Before a Meningococcal Vaccination?
Before receiving the vaccine, notify your doctor if you:
- Have any known allergies to vaccine components
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Are currently taking any medications
- Have a fever or acute illness
- Have a weakened immune system
- Have received another vaccine recently
- Have a history of Guillain-Barré Syndrome or bleeding disorders
Meningococcal Vaccine Side Effects
The meningococcal vaccine may cause mild reactions, which can include:
- Redness or soreness at the injection site
- Headaches
- Light-headedness
These effects usually resolve without intervention. If symptoms persist or become more severe, seek medical advice.
Rare But Serious Reactions to Watch For
Although uncommon, some individuals may experience severe allergic responses. Symptoms to look out for include:
- Swelling of the face or eyes
- Difficulty breathing
- Generalised itchy rash
Seek immediate medical attention if any of these signs occur after vaccination.
Disclaimer: This overview does not cover all possible side effects or medical considerations. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical advice before receiving any vaccination.
Meningococcal Vaccine Cost in Singapore
At Singapore Women's Clinic, we offer the meningococcal ACWY vaccine (MenQuadfi) and MenB vaccines (Trumenba and Bexsero), with prices as follows:
| Vaccine | Price* |
|---|---|
| Meningococcal (MenQuadfiTM MenACWY) Vaccine | $109 / dose |
| Meningitis (Trumenba® MenB) Vaccine | $245 / dose |
| Meningitis (Bexsero® MenB) Vaccine | $279 / dose |
| Influenza (Flu) Vaccine | $38.15 / dose (Subsidies available) |
| Travel Medicines | |
| Malaria Pills (Doxycycline / Malarone) | From $1.09 / tab |
| Period Delay Pill (Norethisterone 5 mg) | $0.76 / tab |
*Prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.
Payment Options We Accept
Why Choose Our Vaccination Services?
Same-Day Appointments
Book in the morning and have your vaccination the same day, at any of our clinics.
One-Stop Clinic
Get several vaccines in one visit, so you are not making a separate trip for each one.
Proof of Vaccination
Receive official documentation at no extra cost, for travel, school or work.
