THE HPV cervical cancer
vaccination programme will begin in second level
schools next week, it's been confirmed.
The vaccine is designed to help protect girls from
developing cervical cancer when they are adults. It
is available free of charge from the Health Service
Executive. Deputy Niall Blaney welcomed the imminent
start of HPV immunisations.
“All girls who are now in first year and all girls
who are starting first year in September will be
offered the vaccine. Vaccines will, in the most
part, be given to girls in second-level schools by
HSE immunisation teams, with some girls being
invited to special clinics for their vaccine,“ said
Deputy Blaney.
“The first schools will be visited during May 2010,
with the remainder of schools commencing the
programme in September 2010. Parents and schools
will be sent information by the HSE in the coming
week, letting them know of the programme and when
their daughter’s vaccinations will begin.”
The Donegal North East Fianna Fáil T.D., said women
had a role to play in their own protection against
cancer of the cervix.
“Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable
kinds of cancer and each woman has a role to play in
ensuring that she keeps herself healthy and out of
danger.
“The cervical cancer screening programme provides
free smears tests for women aged between 25 and 60
and this is another very important step in
prevention.”
More information on cervical cancer is available
from local GPs or family planning clinics. The
national Cancer Helpline on 01 800 200 700 can also
help with queries.
More information on the HPV vaccine programme is
available from a dedicated HSE website
www.hpv.ie . |
