Record number vaccinated against cervical cancer (From Knutsford Guardian)

Record number vaccinated against cervical cancer

7:20pm Friday 12th October 2012 in News

CENTRAL and Eastern Cheshire PCT has vaccinated a record number of girls against cervical cancer during the last school year, 2011/12.

The latest programme of vaccinations saw the PCT’s highest uptake of 95.2 per cent.

The vaccine provides long-lasting protection against cervical cancer, and is offered to year eight girls (12 to 13 years of age) at all secondary schools in the PCT area.

The national programme has been in place for the past four years, with a catch-up programme for girls up to the age of 18.

Dr Guy Hayhurst, consultant in public health, said: “This is a wonderful achievement, with 19 out of every 20 girls in this age group now protected against cervical cancer.

“It will reduce their need for cervical screening when they are older, and the chances of them having an abnormal result will be much lower.”

Clr Janet Clowes, cabinet member in charge of health and adult social care, said: “This news is extremely encouraging and will offer protection and peace of mind to thousands of girls across Cheshire East.

“I would also like to congratulate the school nurses for their dedication in following up the programme with young women in our schools.”

The cervical cancer vaccine is being offered to year eight girls in schools over the next few weeks.

Information packs and consent forms are being distributed via schools, and parents are encouraged to return the consent forms to their daughters’ school.

Older girls up to the age of 18 years who have missed having their vaccinations, should contact their school nurse team for further advice.