News: HPV vaccine latest
On the 26th October 2007, the Welsh Assembly Government, following the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) advice, announced the introduction of a human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine to the national immunisation programme.
The new schedule will offer routine vaccination to girls aged 12-13 years from September 2008. There will also be a two-year catch-up campaign starting in Autumn 2009, for girls aged up to 18 years. Local Health Boards and Trusts will plan how to deliver the vaccination programme locally. JCVI has advised that HPV vaccination would be most efficiently delivered through schools.
There are two HPV vaccines licensed in the UK but no decision has yet been taken on which vaccine will be offered. The Welsh Assembly Government has a press release and HPV Q&A.
This programme has the potential to reduce the number of cases of cervical cancer in future by up to 70%. It is important to emphasise that the need for cervical screening will remain after the HPV vaccine has been introduced.
The National Public Health Service (NPHS) will be assisting areas with their planning and training requirements. Their HPV webpage contains regular updates on the vaccination programme.
Work is currently ongoing in both the Assembly Government and NPHS regarding the various issues that this programme raises including those around vaccine supply, uptake data, communications, funding, and training materials. I understand that health professionals are keen to obtain more information and the Assembly is aiming to provide this as soon as possible.
Peter Farley
Acting Head of Health Protection Division
Public Health and Health Professions Department