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April 8, 2002

INTERNATIONAL IMMUNIZATION NEWS

"Babies to Get Free Meningitis Shots"

Calgary Herald (www.calgaryherald.com) (04/06/02) P. B1; Crowson, Scott

In Canada, the province of Alberta is introducing a routine meningococcal vaccine program for babies.  There have been a number of outbreaks of meningococcal disease in the province over the last three years, which so far have cost the lives of seven people.  The vaccine--which, according to the acting provincial health officer Dr. Karen Grimsrud, was not available until April of last year--will be provided free to all babies born on or after Sept. 1, 2001.  The vaccine will be provided during routine immunization appointments.  The meningitis vaccination program will cost approximately C$6.4 million.

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