Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 September 2013
1413. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health further to the protection of young school girls against cervical cancer, if all school girls who needed this vaccine have actually received all three shots over the six month period required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37749/13]
View answerInformation provided to me by the Health Service Executive report that the 2011-2012 National Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Vaccine Campaign, which provides protection against the main viruses associated with cervical cancer, has been well received. HSE figures show that almost 86% (25,224 students from a cohort of 29,500) of first year girls in second level schools have received their three vaccine doses.
In addition, a catch up programme was introduced in 2011/12 for all 6th year girls and results show that almost 72% (18,995 students from a cohort of 26,571) of students completed their vaccination course. The 2013/2014 Vaccination Campaign will, again include a catch up programme for sixth year students who have not yet completed their three dose schedule.
The HSE also report particularly positive figures around the retention of students in the Vaccination Programme, with 97% of first year girls, and 95% of sixth year girls, who received a first dose of the vaccine completing the three dose schedule.
I am satisfied that the targets we set out for the uptake of the HPV vaccination are being met, and are in line with international targets.
