In recent years, the UK has seen a concerning rise in cases of Meningococcal group W (MenW) disease, a serious and potentially life-threatening form of meningitis and septicaemia. This increase has highlighted the critical importance of protection through the MenACWY vaccine.
Understanding the risks, symptoms, and prevention of MenW infection can help protect individuals, families, and the wider community.
What Is Meningitis W?
Meningitis is caused by the bacteria Neisseria Meningitidis. Between 5 and 11% of adults (and 25% of adolescents) carry this bacteria in their nasopharynx (back of nose and throat) without any symptoms at all.
Why is it that some people go on to develop meningitis and septicaemia (blood poisoning) from Neisseria Meningitidis and others don’t?
We still don’t know the answer to this question unfortunately
We’ve certainly seen some links between age, season, smoking, preceding Influenza A infection and living in closed or semi-closed communities (such as university halls or military barracks) but on the whole, we aren’t certain what it is that predisposes some people to falling ill with this disease.
How is Neisseria Meningitidis spread?
Living in the back of the nose and throat, it spreads by aerosol, droplets or direct contact with respiratory secretions of someone carrying the organism. Transmission often requires repeated and prolonged contact.
The incidence of meningococcal disease is highest in children under the age of 5, with those under the age of 1 being most affected, There is a second peak in incidence in young people aged 15 to 19.
The MenACWY vaccine
This vaccine currently offered only to school leavers, year 9 children in secondary school and first-year university students under the age of 25, produces high levels of bactericidal (bacteria-killing) antibodies to 4 serogroups (Meningitis A, Meningitis C, Meningitis W and Meningitis Y) and through doing so it can help to get rid of these Meningitis groups in teenagers and thus reduce the risk of them spreading and infecting other age groups too.
Since the vaccine was introduced there hasn’t been a case of MenA, MenC, MenW or MenY in a vaccinated teenager in the UK.
Meningitis W
The concern, however, is that Meningitis W has been increasing year on year recently (from 22 cases (in 2009/10) to 210 (2015/16) and affecting healthy people all age groups, including deaths in infants and toddlers.
Who Is Most at Risk?
While anyone can develop meningococcal disease, certain groups are at higher risk, including:
Teenagers and young adults
University and college students
People living in shared accommodation
Individuals travelling to high-risk regions
People with weakened immune systems
Close contact, such as sharing drinks or living in halls of residence, increases transmission risk.
Recognising the Symptoms of Meningitis W
Symptoms can develop suddenly and may worsen quickly. Early symptoms may resemble flu, but can progress to include:
Severe headache
Fever
Neck stiffness
Sensitivity to light
Cold hands and feet
Limb pain
Vomiting or diarrhoea
Confusion or drowsiness
A rash that does not fade when pressed
Meningitis is a medical emergency. If symptoms are suspected, urgent medical attention is essential.
How do we protect younger children against MenW?
If MenW is on the rise and is reported to have a higher than usual death rate, should we be immunising more than just our teenagers with the MenACWY vaccine? Interestingly it has been shown that the MenB vaccine Bexsero protects against this particular MenW strain that is on the rise in the UK. (1)
So if your child was born after the start of the MenB immunisation period and has had their MenB vaccine, it is thought that they will be protected.
If however, your child missed out on it, then it could be worth having the MenB and MenACWY in childhood so that they are covered against these most common of meningitis strains from early on. Data shows a good antibody response after 2 doses of the Menveo vaccine (one of the two MenACWY vaccines used in the UK) in infants.
Who Should Consider the MenACWY Vaccine?
You should consider vaccination if you:
Missed the routine MenACWY vaccination at school
Are starting university or college
Live or work in shared accommodation
Are travelling to countries where meningococcal disease is more common
Want added peace of mind for yourself or your family
Private vaccination allows timely access without waiting lists.
Childhood immunisations at ROC
If you or a family member may be at risk of meningococcal disease, vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect against serious illness. At ROC we offer all routine immunisations of childhood, including Meningitis B and MenACWY. We are able to give these 2 meningitis vaccines to infants, children and adults of all ages.
Contact our reception team to book your MenACWY vaccination appointment.
References:
(1) https://www.meningitis.org/meningitis/what-is-meningitis/bacterial-meningitis/meningococcal-group-w-(menw)
