MENINGITIS C VACCINATION PROGRAMME

Early day motion 978, tabled 17 July 2000 by Judy Mallaber (Labour). Signed by 121 members.

That this House applauds the success of the meningitis C vaccination programme, introduced to protect babies, children and young people from the most virulent form of meningococcal disease; notes with concern that meningococcal disease is the largest cause of death of children aged one to five in the United Kingdom and a serious threat to children and young people; welcomes the fact that due to the new vaccine there has already been a 75 per cent. reduction in the incidence in the immunised groups but recognises the need for continued vigilance against all forms of meningitis; suggest early implementation of a United Kingdom strategy for control, prevention and treatment of neonatal infections that cause meningitis; calls for improved medical education to assist faster diagnosis and more appropriate treatment; commends the partnership of all those involved in the fight against meningitis including the meningitis charities, the industry, the Department of Health, research institutions and the National Health Service, in achieving the success of this programme; and calls upon them to continue to work together in the development of new vaccines and future immunisation programmes to protect against all major infectious causes of meningitis and septicaemia.

Signatures by party: Labour 88, Liberal Democrat 15, Labour/Co-operative 7, Conservative 5, Plaid Cymru 2, Scottish National Party 2, UUP 1, Unknown 1.