Why has the government decided not to fund the vaccine except for babies?
Under-ones are most at risk from meningitis B, so when the immunisation programme was brought in – making the UK the first country in the world to offer the vaccine for free – it focused on babies. Immunisation programmes are often introduced in phases, and the cost of vaccinating all children would be huge.
How common is the disease and how many deaths does it cause?
The incidence rate for all types of meningitis in England in 2014/15 was one in 100,000 people, according to official figures, and it was higher in children and babies. There were 418 cases of meningitis B, 101 of which were among under-ones and 139 of which were were among children aged one to four. Out of all the people who contracted meningitis B in 2014/15, 25 died (6% of all cases).
Are there risks to the vaccine?
It was licensed in January 2013 by the European Medicines Agency, which requires compliance with extensive safety requirements. The vaccine has been through 10 years of trials in the laboratory and among volunteers. Although the UK is the first country to introduce an immunisation programme, more than 500,000 doses have been given in more than 35 countries worldwide and no risks have been identified. However, side effects are possible.
Should you try to get it privately?
If your children are not covered by the immunisation programme you could try to get it from a private clinic. The cost varies, with Boots charging £95 per dose and some private clinics charging almost £200. Two doses are required for people over six months old, meaning it could total almost £400. But even if you can afford it, you are unlikely to be able to get it. There is a shortage of the vaccine outside the NHS programme, which is unlikely to be resolved until June.
Is the government likely to change its mind as a result of the petition?
It is unlikely to give in easily, because it would cost so much. Sarah Wollaston, a doctor and senior Tory MP, said the government should not alter policy on the basis of a petition. The government can also point to some support from the scientific community, including the Meningitis Research Foundation, which says the programme should not be extended to all children until more evidence has been gathered about its effectiveness.
