PARENTS may be concerned about having their children immunised against Meningitis C because of the media reports of adverse reactions to the vaccine.

We want to reassure parents that this is a very safe vaccine which has been extensively tested and that the number of reports of reactions to the vaccine (4764) is normal for a programme like this.

The vast majority of these reactions are not serious and may include short-term symptoms such as headaches and sore arms. These reactions, especially dizziness are commonly experienced by children and adults who have any injection.

Any other reports of more serious reactions, the most common symptoms include fainting or neck stiffness, are being looked at very carefully and we will continue to monitor the programme. However, our advice to parents and young people is that they should continue to take up the opportunity to be immunised.

More than 13 million doses of the Meningitis C vaccine have been distributed to children and young people since it was introduced last year.

This has cut the number of deaths and cases by more than 70 per cent in those immunised.

In that context, the number of reported reactions is very low and the benefits of protection overwhelming.

We are monitoring the meningitis vaccine programme but are pleased with the initial results and are not carrying out a review.

Dr Pat Troop

Deputy chief medical officer

NHS Executive.