"There is hope for the future, especially with the development and widespread implementation of improved meningitis vaccine programmes across the globe."
The WHO has held an inaugural high-level meeting to defeat meningitis which marks a potentially pivotal moment in the fight against the devastating illness.
The meeting, hosted by the French Government, heard calls for the international community to increase their commitments to eradicating meningitis in the next six years.
Meningitis Now is also a co-signatory to a commitment, organised by CoMO, the Confederation of Meningitis Organisations, to bring together global voices of people affected by meningitis.
Chief Executive Dr Tom Nutt said, "It is hugely encouraging to see this concerted global effort and coordinated action to tackle the devastating impact of meningitis head-on. There is hope for the future, especially with the development and widespread implementation of improved meningitis vaccine programmes across the globe."
Dr Nutt added, "In the UK, charities such as Meningitis Now have played a key role in the scientific development of vaccines and in campaigning for their introduction into the NHS’s national immunisation schedule. By working constructively with government and industry we’ve achieved significant strides in prevention, treatment, and support for those affected. This model of partnership can serve as a blueprint globally, demonstrating the impact that can be achieved when organisations unite in pursuit of a common goal."
The WHO says the roadmap is projected to avert 2.7million cases of meningitis and 920,000 deaths globally, while preventing nearly 800,000 people experiencing the after-effects of the disease.
The meeting follows the announcement in 2021 of the ‘Defeating Meningitis by 2030 global roadmap’ which sets out key priorities for counties around the world and how the disease should be tackled.
The roadmap says achieving high immunisation coverage, developing new affordable vaccines, and improving prevention strategies and outbreak responses are all vital, as well as ensuring speedy diagnosis and optimal treatment for patients. The roadmap also highlights the importance of collecting good data to guide prevention and control efforts, and providing better follow up care and support for those affected.
Meningitis Now is dedicated to fighting meningitis and supporting those affected by the disease by funding research and awareness campaigns, and delivering vital support services.
