How we are defeating meningitis

Available data on meningitis is often partial or poor. Because of this we do not have a true picture of the disease. Poor or inconsistent data collection and surveillance systems are a major contributory factor. We need to ensure robust data is available in order to implement effective, sustainable solutions for a world free from meningitis. Because of this we will ensure that all of our actions are based on the best possible evidence so that robust solutions can make real progress towards defeating meningitis.

Many experts and organisations are working on meningitis but none achieve the transformation we are looking for on their own. MRF, with our unique history, can play a key role in connecting the right people to bring about change. By convening others, bringing together experts, and coordinating knowledge we can advocate for change. Forming new partnerships will also give us a stronger voice of influence. Because of this we will work in partnership with others to combine expertise, skills, and experience, bringing together knowledge needed to deliver our goals.

To defeat meningitis we need sustainable long-term solutions. While we continue to be innovative, we do this in order to find solutions that last. The United Nation Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a clear framework for long-term priorities and we will work to align global meningitis action with these goals. Because of this we will work towards a long-term, sustainable programme of work to ensure continued effort to defeat meningitis.

Goal

To see fewer people get meningitis and septicaemia.

By 2030 this means

Effective vaccines for epidemics and routine schedules in place to protect people most at risk within populations.

Key objectives in this strategy

• To support ongoing research into better ways to improve prevention of meningitis.
• To secure a global commitment and plan to eliminate meningitis with vaccines at its core.

Our activity

To fund, promote and undertake research into vaccines and advocate for effective vaccine policy and financing in the UK and Republic of Ireland, as well as at a global and country level.

Goal

To see more people survive with a better quality of life and reduced disability.

By 2030 this means

Patient pathways, health systems and appropriate tools exist that enable accurate, rapid diagnosis and appropriate treatment of meningitis and septicaemia.

Key objectives in this strategy

To be working with partners in the UK, Republic of Ireland and 3-5 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa on strengthening the patient healthcare pathway.
To maintain and develop our work in Malawi.

Our activity

To fund, promote and undertake research into effective diagnosis and treatment as well as carry out targeted projects with suitable partners to strengthen patient pathways, and access, in countries with high burden of disease.

Goal

To have more engaged, informed and supported patients and communities.

By 2030 this means

People and communities are cared for and have their voice heard within the health system to make it responsive to their needs.

Key objectives in this strategy

• To maintain our strong UK and Republic of Ireland patient voice.
• To have established new partnerships at both a global level and country level directly with at least 10 patient representatives or groups in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Our activity

We will help our members and supporters and ensure their voice is heard in the UK and Republic of Ireland policy process. We will reach out to other like-minded patient groups in settings where burden of disease is high to help ensure their communities play an active role in the fight against the disease and after effects.