Pharmacists Push for Teen Meningitis Vaccinations

Pharmacists in Britain advocate for a nationwide catch-up vaccination service targeting teenagers to tackle declining immunization rates against meningitis and other diseases. This push comes as the UK reports a staggering 159 meningitis deaths in 2023, out of 5,150 cases. A recent outbreak in Kent resulted in two university student deaths and dozens of infections, but no new cases have been reported since the peak of 29 infections. Globally, meningitis caused 259,000 deaths and 2.54 million cases in 2023, with experts warning that progress since 1990 has slowed. The World Health Organization aims to halve cases and reduce deaths by 70% by 2030, but researchers argue that current efforts are insufficient, emphasizing the need for improved vaccines, treatments, and outreach through pharmacies and other channels. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/be2f67714906c17e