LETTER: Meningitis

On September 1 the UK introduced the world’s first comprehensive vaccination programme for babies against meningococcal B (MenB) meningitis and septicaemia into the UK’s immunisation programme.

Also a meningococcal ACWY (Men ACWY) vaccination programme began in August for 14 to 18 year old schoolchildren and 19 to 25 year olds starting university for the first time.

We are delighted with the introduction of these new vaccines which we hope will further reduce the number of cases in the UK.

But we wish to remind the public that not everyone is eligible for the vaccines and some forms of the disease are not covered by these vaccines so it is vital that people are still aware of the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia.

For any questions about meningitis, septicaemia and vaccination against the diseases call MRF’s Freefone helpline on 080 8800 3344 or log on to www.meningitis.org

Christopher Head

chief executive

Meningitis Research Foundation

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