The vaccine for the bubonic plague, previously the biggest killer in Europe before bad dental hygiene, has finally been developed by scientists in the United Kingdom. However, despite the breakthrough experts fear that it may be too late to prevent the Black Death epidemic.

“The trouble is this, “ Expert Keith Wilson explained, “The Black Death took place several hundred years ago – even the more recent Plague took place in the 17th century. Not only are the Plague infected people dead, but so are the people who weren’t infected by it.”

Despite Mr Wilson’s concerns, the UK Government has placed an extensive order for the vaccine – and will administer with the infamous MMR jab in an effort to persuade sceptical parents to let their child have the controversial injection.

“Parents will now think twice about not giving consent for their child to have the jab,” Prime Minister Tony Blair announced, “Because it’s the only way to ensure their child remains plague free.”

The researchers of the vaccine believe that many people are missing the point, as they are very aware that both the Black Death and 1665 Plague outbreaks have come to an end. They explained that although Europe’s sanitation is at a level where such diseases can no longer manifest themselves there are areas of the globe where the disease is prevalent.

“Utter tosh!” Tory Leader Michael Howard exclaimed, “Why on earth are researchers in this country developing something if it doesn’t benefit us?”