Vaccine made available at mall

by Genevieve Helliwell | 19th January 2010

Young women are being given the chance to get up to date with their HPV vaccinations against cervical cancer, through a booth set up in the Bayfair Shopping Centre yesterday.

HPV schools co-ordinator Sue Stevens said the day generated a "very positive response" from women who were vaccinated and from those who just wanted more information about the vaccine.

By 3.45pm yesterday, Bay of Plenty District Health Board nurses had vaccinated nine girls - two from Whakatane. Ms Stevens said another two girls had signed up and had their first vaccinations.

Ms Stevens said it was important young women received all three doses of the Gardasil vaccine to be fully protected from HPV infection, which could lead to genital warts and cervical cancer in some cases.

"Don't wait until school starts to get up to date with your vaccinations," Ms Stevens said.

"If girls are due their next dose, it's better to be on time than wait until their next school visit.

"Doses are funded at $150 each and if people only get two, then it would be a waste," she said.

HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) is a virus spread most commonly through sexual contact, including intimate skin-to-skin contact.

Ms Stevens said ongoing clinical studies showed that after five years, protection against the HPV virus remained high and suggested  protection would last much longer - possibly for life.

"For many girls, having a sexual partner may be a long way off but being immunised now will mean they will be protected through the most vulnerable years when they are most at risk of contracting the HPV infection," she said.

The vaccine is free to all girls and young women born after January 1, 1990. Anyone who is enrolled at secondary school in the Bay of Plenty, or is overdue or due for their next dose, is welcome to come along.

Vaccination at other times can be arranged by calling 021 242 1918.

The second catch-up clinic is  being held on January 22, between 9am and 5pm at Bayfair Shopping Mall.

- with Carly Udy