Saturday, October 06, 2012

Fight Against Meningitis Blog 6, Lakeisha Richardson


Every year many American children get vaccinated so they can be protected from different viruses and illness. Meningitis vaccination is only one of the many vaccinations offered to children in America. Meningitis is a disease that causes swelling in the brain and spinal cord. This disease can lead to deafness, learning disabilities and/or brain damage. While many Americans are protected from meningitis, there remain some countries fighting every year to avoid this disease. Many children and adults in Africa miss school and work because they are afraid to get meningitis. An article titled “New Immunization Effort Launched” talks about how vaccinations are available in 26 “at risk” countries. 430 million people within the targeted countries are affected by meningitis. Each vaccination costs 50 cents in U. S dollars. Making the vaccinations cost effective, helps protect those families who may not have otherwise been able to afford the vaccination.

It is a relief to know that the World Health Organization is devoting time in trying to protect as many as 430 million families affected by meningitis. Parents who stayed out of work because of their fear to contact meningitis can now continue working and supporting their families. Children can continue to go to school to receive valuable education about how to live in their culture. Making vaccinations available to developing countries at a low price give that country a chance to grow. It can be very cost effective to nurture an ill adult or child. Meningitis was hurting many families especially in the targeted countries.

 

http://www.voanews.com/content/africa-meningitis-4oct12/1520404.html

No comments: