With the introduction of the meningococcal B vaccination, the youngest children will now be immunized against 14 different diseases. For some parents, the question arises as to whether this will become too much at some point. What experts say.
Once the spherical bacteria spread through children’s bodies, a life can be wiped out or changed forever within hours. Around eight percent of people who contract an invasive meningococcal B infection die – including a disproportionate number of young children. Others suffer permanent consequences such as amputated limbs, deafness or cognitive impairments. The disease is rare but cruel. The Standing Vaccination Commission (Stiko) now recommends immunization against meningococcal B. The vaccine protects around 70 to 80 percent better against the disease than a placebo.