Meningitis Research Foundation is aware of news reports stating that a parent did not want their baby to have the routine childhood immunisations that protect against meningitis due to concerns about potential adverse reactions.
Meningitis and septicaemia are deadly diseases that can strike without warning, killing one in ten, and leaving a quarter of survivors with life altering after-effects ranging from deafness and brain damage to loss of limbs. Babies are most at risk.
The safety of all vaccines is thoroughly investigated in clinical trials before being introduced into the routine immunisation schedule.
The best way to prevent meningitis and septicaemia is vaccination. We encourage all parents to take up the offer of the routine vaccines that are included in the immunisation schedule for their children
The vaccines that are now available against some types of meningitis and septicaemia have helped reduce the number of cases around the world. For example in the UK, the meningococcal group C (MenC) vaccine introduced in 1999 has now successfully reduced cases to just a handful each year.
Any parents wanting more information about childhood vaccinations can contact our free helpline on 080 8800 3344 or helpline@meningitis.org.