TEENAGERS
The Isle of Man follows the same Childhood Immunisation Programme carried out within the UK.
The following information has been taken from the NHS Immunisations at secondary school booklet 404314 Jan11 issued by the Department of Health.
Immunisation Schedule: Secondary School
| At what age to immunise | Disease protected Against | Vaccine Given |
|---|---|---|
| Girls aged 12 to 13 years | Cervical cancer caused by human papillomavirus types 16 and 18 | HPV |
| 13 to 18 years old | Tetanus, diphtheria and polio | Td/IPV |
Remember, it’s never too late to have your child immunised. Even if your child has missed an immunisation and is older than the recommended ages, talk to your doctor, practice nurse or health visitor to arrange for your child to be immunised.
Disease Definitions
What is the HPV (cervical cancer) vaccine?
There are many types of human papillomavirus. The HPV vaccine protects against the two types that cause most cases (over 70%) of cervical cancer.
Public Health has a separate information page for HPV there is a tab to the left of this page for further information.
What is tetanus?
Tetanus is a painful disease affecting the nervous system which can lead to muscle spasms, cause breathing problems and can kill. It is caused when germs found in the soil and manure get into the body through open cuts or burns. Tetanus cannot be passed from person to person.
What is diphtheria?
Diphtheria is a serious disease that usually begins with a sore throat and can quickly cause breathing problems. It can damage the heart and nervous system, and in severe cases, it can kill.
What is polio?
Polio is a virus that attacks the nervous system which can cause permanent paralysis of muscles. If it affects the chest muscles or the brain, polio can kill.
If I was immunised against tetanus, diphtheria and polio as a child, am I still protected?
You may still have some protection, but you need this booster to complete your routine immunisations and give you longer term protection.
Unfortunately, the Isle of Man Government, Department of Health can no longer supply printed copies of these UK NHS booklets. Downloadable versions can still be accessed below if required.
| Click Image | Ref No. | Name |
|---|---|---|
![]() | NHS 404314 Jan11 | Immunisations at secondary school - Your questions answered |
![]() | NHS 404119 Dec 10 | Routine childhood immunisations from November 2010 |
| NHS Choices Website Link | NHS Choices also have useful guidance pages on vaccinations to view these pages click this link: www.nhs.uk/vaccinations | |
All health professionals that give immunisations or provide information and advice should link here to the UK - Department of Health 'Green Book' which gives a comprehensive and invaluable source of current information.
Updated October 2011 / Review October 2012






