More babies protected by new vaccination programme

From the 1st of September 2015 the NHS now offers the MenB vaccination as part of its Childhood Immunisation Programme in England.  Babies will be offered this MenB vaccine with the other routine vaccinations at 2 months, 4 months and 12 to 13 months of age which helps protect them when they are most at risk of developing MenB disease. Infants aged under one are at the most risk of meningitis B infection, which is fatal in one in 10 cases and campaigners are optimistic that the vaccination could prevent up to 4,000 cases by 2025.

Dr Mary Ramsay, Head of Immunisation at Public Health England said: “This vaccine will help to save lives and prevent permanent disability. Meningococcal B disease can be devastating for babies and young children and it has cut many lives short and left young people disabled… We must all remain alert to the signs and symptoms of meningococcal disease and seek urgent medical attention if there is any concern as the vaccine does not protect against all types of meningococcal disease.Be aware of all signs and symptoms and trust your instincts: don’t wait for a rash to develop before seeking urgent medical attention.”

Read the Public Health England statement here