Short Film Looks to Build Awareness Around Meningitis B Vaccination

Although relatively rare, meningitis B (meningococcal disease), can be especially severe in the young patients it afflicts. It can cause life-threatening complications or even death. Teenagers and young adults aged 16-23 years, are at an increased risk for contracting meningitis because it can spread through common behaviors such as living in close quarters, coughing, sneezing, kissing, and sharing drinks or utensils.

The CDC points out that the meningococcal B vaccine can help protect against meningococcal disease caused by serogroup B. A different meningococcal vaccine is available that can help protect against serogroups A, C, W, and Y.

GSK’s Ask2BSure campaign, which is designed to create awareness for families about vaccination around meningitis B.

As part of their campaign, a short film titled, I Never Thought to Ask: A Mom's Quest for Answers with Soleil Moon Frye” has been developed. It features the actress, documentarian, and GSK spokesperson Soleil Moon Frye, alongside an appearance with actress, Melissa Joan Hart. The film includes interviews with a medical expert, a meningitis survivor and mothers who have lost their children to meningitis B. Frye hears from those impacted by the disease and shares their stories to encourage parents to ask questions and talk with their teen’s provider about meningitis B vaccination.

“I am grateful to the women who shared their personal stories as part of this short film,” said Moon Frye. “They echo my hope that its message encourages parents to talk openly with their teens and their teen’s doctor about the potential serious dangers associated with meningitis B,and most importantly, to advocate for their children.”

For families who have children of age, it is important to know vaccine status. “Asking questions is key–and we hope the film leads to more parents talking to their child’s doctor about meningitis B vaccination,” said Leonard Friedland, MD, vice president and director of Scientific Affairs and Public Health, GSK.

According to the CDC, the recommended ages for the meningitis B (Men B) vaccine is between 16-18 years. The federal agency, “recommends that certain adolescents and young adults should receive a MenB vaccine. They include those at increased risk because of a serogroup B meningococcal disease outbreak and people with certain medical conditions.”

For those interested in viewing the film, they can do so here.