By having this routine vaccination girls will be protected against the two strains of HPV that cause over 70% of cases of cervical cancer in the UK, and also provides protection against a further two strains of HPV that cause around 90% of genital warts.

If you would like more details you can download a Question and Answers information sheet. You can also talk to your school nurse, your GP or practice nurse if you have further questions.

The Isle of Man commenced HPV vaccination in 2010; it is well received and tolerated, in the UK the vaccination has been offered since 2008. We have the opportunity of helping to prevent the spread of a very serious disease that affects over 3,000 women every year in the UK and causes over 1,000 deaths.

We hope that the information provided addresses any concerns about the vaccination and that you feel confident that by having the HPV vaccine girls are protecting themselves and others from a very serious disease later in life.

• The HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) is responsible for 99% of cervical cancer; cervical cancer affects over 3000 women every year in the UK and causes over 1,000 deaths
• The HPV vaccine offers protection against two of the most common strains of the virus responsible for Cervical Cancer as well as 2 strains that cause genital warts. It will reduce the occurrence of cervical cancer and genital warts.
• Three doses are needed to get full protection – given one month and 6 months after the first dose
• HPV infection is very common: A study in Manchester found that 1 in 4 girls aged 15-19 are infected with HPV. By the age of 50 about 80% of women have had HPV infection.
• HPV infection does not cause any symptoms.

Parents or carers of eligible girls will receive a consent form through the post to complete and return to Public Health in the Summer prior to commencing year 8 at school (12- 13 years old). The scientific evidence for having the vaccinations at this age shows that the body makes its best immune system response that lasts well and can protect for 10 years – probably longer.

Girls who are under 18 remain eligible for the HPV vaccination through the programme, regardless of school year if they haven’t yet received it and should contact Public Health for further advice.

If you have missed any of your vaccinations and not received a new appointment, please contact us to arrange one telephone 642688. It is not necessary to restart all the injections again.