January 2018.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination for year 8 students
Dear parents/caregivers,
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is part of the New Zealand National Immunisation Schedule for both boys and girls in year 8 at school. This programme is delivered by Public Health Nurses in schools throughout the Otago region.
Prior to 2017 only girls were included in the funded programme, and boys and young men had to purchase the vaccines through their GP if they wished to be immunised.
The vaccine protects against cancers which are caused by HPV viruses, as well as genital warts. The vaccine has been used for a number of years around the world, and is already showing excellent results in lowering the incidence of genital warts.
The public health nurse for your school will deliver an education session to all the eligible students, and your child will bring home a consent form for you to fill in and return to the school. Please inform the school if you do not wish for your child to attend the education session.
Please fill in the consent form and return it to the school whether you consent or do not consent to the vaccinations.
No student will be vaccinated at school unless they have a consent form signed by a parent or legal guardian.
The HPV vaccination is also available through your GP/practice nurse, at no cost. Please phone them to make an appointment should you prefer your child to be vaccinated at your GP.
The consent form contains information about the HPV vaccine and the diseases covered. Should you have any more questions please do not hesitate to contact:
- The public health nurse for your school
- Your GP/practice nurse
- Immunisation information line on 0800 466 863 (0800 IMMUNE)
Yours sincerely,
Paula McHugh
Public Health Nurse
0275033329 / 4404309
Paula,mchugh@southerndhb.govt.nz
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