We have seen dramatic reductions in cases of the disease

Dr Mary Ramsay, PHLS

Britain was the first country to introduce the vaccine.

Reductions

Dr Mary Ramsay of the PHLS immunisation division, said, "Since the new vaccine against group C meningococcal disease was first introduced in November 1999, we have seen dramatic reductions in cases of the disease amongst those age groups who have been vaccinated.

"As well as demonstrating that the vaccine is very effective, our surveillance shows that the vaccine also has an excellent safety record. "

But she said it was still important for people to remain vigilant for the signs and symptoms of the disease.

There are three strains of meningococcal meningitis, A, B, and C.

Vaccines are available for both type C and type A.

Meningitis C accounts for around 40% of cases.

Scientists are still working on a vaccine for meningitis B, but it is years away from being publicly available.

Rash

Meningitis is an inflammation of the brain lining and is mostly caused by bacteria and viruses.

A stiff neck and a purplish rash are key signs of the disease.

If meningococcal meningitis is caught early, it can be treated with antibiotics, but it is important to catch the disease early.

The majority of patients survive, but experts think around an eighth of patients suffer after-effects.

These include brain damage, loss of sight, hearing impairments, arthritis, fits, loss of balance, depression and fatigue. Most of the after-effects disappear after a year.