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Alarm over meningitis vaccine plans

Doctors have raised concerns over the cost and implementation of the new vaccine against pneumococcal disease, due to be introduced into the UK. In February, the Department of Health (DoH) said babies would receive a jab against pneumococcal disease, which can cause meningitis, pneumonia and septicaemia.

In February, the Department of Health (DoH) said babies would receive a jab against pneumococcal disease, which can cause meningitis, pneumonia and septicaemia.

But doctors are concerned about funding for the vaccine, which will cost Pounds 34.50 per shot - more than the other childhood vaccines put together.

Dr Peter Holden, a member of the British Medical Association's team negotiating the vaccine programme with the DoH, said, 'No one had consulted with us before this was announced.

'It needs to be included in our contract and the proper funds need to be made available.

'We have not reached an agreement yet. That is not to say there is a problem, but I would say we are looking at the end of the year at the earliest.'

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