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VACCINATION AND IMMUNISATION

Infection with rubella (German measles) during the first three months of pregnancy
may give rise to serious congenital defects in the baby. A vaccine to prevent the
disease has been manufactured and was made available during 1970 through the Department
of Health and Social Security. In the first instance vaccination has been offered to
girls aged thirteen years. It is hoped to extend the age group during 1971. The
vaccination consists of a single injection.
It is too early at this stage to give a confident prediction of the likely degree
of success,, but a substantial protection is hoped for. It will, however, be some years
before statistical proof becomes available.