Meningitis study aims for fewer needles

Meningitis study aims for fewer needles

Perth researchers are investigating a new combined vaccine to protect against three causes of potentially deadly bacterial meningitis.

The study, by the Vaccine Trials Group at the Telethon Institute for Child Health Research, is looking at the effectiveness of the vaccine when combined with baby's routine vaccinations.

Study leader, Dr Peter Richmond, said the combined vaccine could reduce the number of injections needed by babies in the first six months of life and may offer protection against bacterial meningitis.

"We know that vaccinations for Hib and meningococcal types C and Y are very important to protect against this serious infection, but we also understand that the number of immunisations required for young babies can seem overwhelming," Dr Richmond said.

"If we can combine vaccines, without reducing their effectiveness, then it will be a relief for many parents who are conscientious in ensuring that their children are properly vaccinated."

Bacterial meningitis is a serious infection in children that can be caused by meningococcal, pneumococcal and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) germs.  

The combined meningitis vaccine study will look at how a new, combined Hib and meningococcal types C and Y vaccine works when it is given with baby's routine vaccinations, including the chicken pox vaccine.

The Perth research project is part of an Australian wide study, sponsored by a major international pharmaceutical company.

Healthy babies who are now aged between 6 and 12 weeks are needed for the study. In addition to receiving vaccination for Hib and meningococcal, they will be given all the recommended routine vaccinations including the chicken pox and pneumococcal vaccines.

For more information, contact a study nurse on 9340 8542.

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