The HPV vaccination programme, launched to protect women from two strains of the virus, which causes over 70% of cervical cancer cases, has moved into the second year. This year’s vaccination program aims to increase the number of 18-year-olds taking vaccination.  

The quarterly report about vaccine uptake in children in Wales said, “Preliminary figures for first year of the HPV catch-up campaign in girls reaching their 18th birthday during September 08 to August 09 are lower – at present the reasons for this are not clear, however efforts should be made to ensure that vaccinations are offered as recommended.”

The report showed that number of 13-year-old girls taking all three doses of HPV vaccine in the first year of the routine schools-based campaign was high.

Nearly nine out of 10 schoolgirls had their first dose of the jab. However, 79% have had their third HPV dose.

Professor Alison Fiander, based at Cardiff University’s obstetrics and gynaecology department, said, “I would encourage all parents in Wales to get their daughters vaccinated as the HPV vaccine will save lives.”