The NHS vaccination programme
The UK’s national HPV immunisation plan was introduced into school in autumn 2008 for all girls aged 12-13 (school year 8). Catch-up programmes which aim to offer vaccinations to all girls between the ages of 12 and 18 started in autumn 2009 and will continue until autumn 2010.
The aim of this catch-up period is to ensure all girls under 18 years of age have been offered the HPV vaccine. The NHS immunisation programme uses Cervarix. Cervarix is over 99% effective in preventing cervical abnormalities associated with HPV 16 and 18 . However, efficacy is decreased if the woman vaccinated has already contracted the virus. Although Cervarix does not protect against all strains of HPV there is some evidence that it provides cross-protection against other HPV strains. Boys are currently not included in the NHS vaccination scheme.
More information on NHS HPV vaccination programmes:
England
Scotland
Wales
Northern Ireland
It is also possible to obtain both the vaccines on the NHS at your GP or privately. Many local chemists are also offering the vaccine. Check with your local pharmacist to see if the vaccine is available near you.
The arm against cervical cancer advert part of the HPV Vaccination programme in England:
Last updated: 10/03/2011
