Meningococcal ACWY vaccination

Meningococci are bacteria that can cause serious illnesses, including meningitis and blood poisoning. Vaccination against meningococcal ACWY provides effective protection for you and your family. The vaccination is particularly recommended when travelling to regions with an increased risk of infection, such as Saudi Arabia or parts of Africa.

Meningococci of serogroups A, C, W and Y are bacteria that can colonise the human nose and throat. They are mainly transmitted through respiratory droplets, for example when coughing, sneezing or speaking. Meningococcal disease often begins with flu-like symptoms. However, it can quickly develop into life-threatening meningitis or blood poisoning (sepsis). Typical symptoms include severe headaches, neck stiffness, high fever and vomiting. In severe cases, brain damage, hearing loss or amputations may occur. Fatal outcomes are also possible. 

Vaccination offers the best protection against meningococcal ACWY infection. In particular, routine vaccination during adolescence can effectively reduce the risk of severe disease. The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) also recommends vaccination for people with congenital or acquired immunodeficiency.

Vaccination is also recommended before travelling to countries with an increased risk of infection.

The STIKO recommends a single vaccination with a meningococcal ACWY conjugate vaccine for:

There are currently three quadrivalent conjugate vaccines recommended by the STIKO. For 12 to 14 years, a single dose of an age-appropriate approved vaccine is generally sufficient for protection against disease. Nimenrix® can be used from the age of six weeks, MenQuadfi® from 12 months and Menveo from two years.

As the vaccines mentioned above are not identical, the side effects listed below may occur with varying frequency:

For further information about risks and side effects, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

When travelling to high-risk areas, SBK covers 100% of the costs for the meningococcal ACWY travel vaccination. In some German federal states and for certain medical indications, the vaccination can be billed directly via the SBK Healthcare Card. This means you do not need to pay upfront.

In other federal states, reimbursement is currently handled through the reimbursement procedure. This means the vaccine is initially prescribed privately and paid for by the patient. SBK then reimburses the costs in full. To claim reimbursement, simply upload the doctor’s invoice, the pharmacy receipt and the vaccine prescription to the Meine SBK App.

Submit invoice

Alternatively, send your documents by post to: You can find our address and a prepaid envelope here. Your reimbursement will arrive in your account by bank transfer after a few days.

You or your child can receive the meningococcal ACWY vaccination at your GP practice or paediatrician’s practice. Please bring your vaccination record to the appointment.