The HPV vaccination programme, offered to girls since 2008 and boys from 2019, has markedly reduced HPV infections and rates of cervical cancer.
It also helps protect against genital warts and some cancers of the genital areas and anus, as well as some mouth and throat cancers.
However, with over a quarter of eligible pupils missing out on this vital life saving protection each year, parents are urged to give consent so their children don’t miss out.
Parents and carers are encouraged to complete the online consent form using the link sent to them by the School Age Immunisation Service. If they have any questions about the vaccine or would prefer to give verbal consent, they can call 01902 200077.
Councillor Obaida Ahmed, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: “We’re urging parents of children eligible for the HPV vaccine to give their consent as soon as possible, as it helps protect against a virus causing mouth and throat cancer, and nearly all cases of cervical cancer.
“Hundreds of women die of cervical cancer in England each year but data suggests that 99.8% of cases of cervical cancer are preventable through HPV vaccination and cervical screening, so this vaccine is crucial in our drive to eliminate the disease.”
