Parents Urged To Consent To HPV Vaccine

15 September 2010, 07:16 | Updated: 15 September 2010, 07:18

Parents of 12 to 13 year old girls across Dorset and Hampshire will soon be getting letters from their schools about the HPV vaccine.

It involves three injections and will protect their daughters against human papilloma virus, which can lead to cervical cancer.

The vaccination for this age group in year 8 is currently being offered routinely in schools. The catch up campaign for girls in school year groups 10 -13 has now been completed.

Consultant in public health, Sophia Callaghan has told Heart: “The vaccination is an easy, safe way of protecting against HPV, which can cause cervical cancer, but it is crucial that those having the vaccination complete the full course of three injections.

“Just having one or two injections may not protect you, it is important to complete the full course of three injections to give the maximum protection you need.” 

Noeleen McFarland, public health manager for NHS Hampshire, said: "The vaccine will be given by a school nurse. The vaccine is given in the arm in three separate injections at one to two and six months following the first injection.”

The first part of the vaccination will take place on 16th September for those taking part.  For more information please visit: www.immunisation.nhs.uk    

And to get all your questions answered about HPV, the vaccine and Cervical Cancer, click here.