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New Meningitis Vaccine
05 January 2005
Meningitis Research Foundation is delighted with today's news that Government advisers have given their support in principle to a new vaccination to protect against pneumococcal disease.
Said Chief Executive Denise Vaughan: "Pneumococcal meningitis and septicaemia have affected the lives of many of the charity's 5,000 members. They share Meningitis Research Foundation's vision of a world free from meningitis and septicaemia and the introduction of this vaccine will take us a step closer to our vision."
Serious pneumococcal disease such as meningitis, septicaemia (blood poisoning) and pneumonia is responsible for the deaths of at least 50 babies and young children every year in the UK leaving many others with life-long disabilities, including brain damage, epilepsy and deafness.
Supporting families affected by meningitis and septicaemia forms part of Meningitis Research Foundation's essential work. Further information about this work or about meningitis and septicaemia, can be obtained from the Foundation's Freefone 24 hour helpline - 080 8800 3344.