Across WA, Western Australians are susceptible to an unseen risk, one that can be easily mitigated with a simple solution.

Meningococcal is a contagious bacterial disease, which can lead to septicaemia, sepsis, meningitis, and death.

In Australia, an estimated 20 to 30 per cent of people carry meningococcal bacteria in their throat without becoming unwell and can transfer this from person to person through close contact.

For those who become unwell, it often happens within 24 hours, with 10 per cent of cases resulting in death and 25 per cent in permanent disability.

Although it is not 100 per cent effective, meningococcal vaccines are the best defence against the risk of contracting meningococcal.

Currently, Western Australians can receive a free meningococcal vaccine for the A, C, W, and Y strains, but not the B strain.

With Meningococcal B as the major strain impacting children under two—and this strain not being covered under the National Immunisation Program (NIP)—case numbers associated with it are expected to rise.

By early November, case numbers for Meningococcal B for 2024 had already doubled those seen in 2023, and could continue to rise without proper intervention.

Every single case is someone’s child, friend, or family member – every case is another Western Australian’s life in jeopardy.

The WA Liberals know more can be done to protect Western Australians from this deadly disease.

Around 90 per cent of WA parents would like to give their kids the Meningococcal B vaccine, but the expense of $400 for teens and $600 for babies is an out-of-pocket cost many families cannot afford.

Keeping Western Australians safe relies on a government willing to put them first, through access to relevant treatments and vaccines.

Only a WA Liberal Government will do it.

The WA Liberals believe in proactive, preventative healthcare solutions, and this policy underscores our commitment to a healthier and safer future for all.

In 2018, the Cook Labor Government moved the  Meningococcal ACWY vaccine onto the State-funded list, where it remained until it moved to the Federal Government’s National Immunisation Program list.

While South Australia, Queensland, and the Northern Territory are making the B strain vaccine free on their State-funded list in 2025, WA Labor is advocating on an unknown timeline for it to be put on the NIP instead of doing what is right and funding it now.

Reducing the prevalence of Meningococcal B is simple – listening to parents who are calling for access to this vital vaccine.

A WA Liberal Government will commit $6 million to fund a comprehensive, free Meningococcal B vaccination program across WA for babies, teens, and at-risk individuals.

This will safeguard the health and wellbeing of Western Australia’s most vulnerable populations.

By investing in this life-saving program, we are not only protecting the health of Western Australians but also reducing strain on our healthcare and disability support systems.

Preventing potential serious and permanent impacts of a meningococcal B infection is estimated to save over $10 million per patient in long-term health care and disability support costs.

This will allow our health system to focus on its broader functions and fill the alarming gap in immunisation coverage, saving the lives and livelihoods of many.

Western Australians deserve a strong commitment to protecting children and other vulnerable individuals, especially when it comes to their health and wellbeing.

Only the WA Liberal Party is dedicated to reducing the prevalence of this devasting disease, preventing further financial and emotional burdens associated with long-term care for survivors, and limiting the number of preventable deaths from this disease.