Dear Editor,
I am writing on behalf of the Meningitis Trust in response to the news that cases of mumps reported to the Health Protection Surveillance Centre have increased significantly over the last year.
We are concerned by the increase, as mumps can cause viral meningitis; a disease that can leave people with life long after-effects, including reoccurring headaches, memory and concentration problems, chronic fatigue an hearing problems. We would urge all parents to ensure their child receives the recommended MMR vaccine, available as part of the childhood immunisation schedule.
Although there has been controversy in the press surrounding the vaccine, experts have said that it's perfectly safe. Before the MMR vaccine, mumps caused many cases of childhood viral meningitis and we would not want to see these levels rise again.
We, at the Meningitis Trust, support the use of all safe and effective vaccines that may help protect against meningitis, as we know first-hand how devastating the disease can be. Every day we see people who are struggling to cope with the impact of meningitis, and anything that may prevent this suffering is supported by us.
We have a freephone 24-hour nurse-led helpline, so if anyone is concerned about this, they can call us for more information on 1800 523 196 or visit our website at www.meningitis-trust.ie
Yours sincerely,
Carole Nealon
General Manager
The Meningitis Trust
PO Box 102
Bray
Co Wicklow
