Every year 60 women die from cervical cancer in New Zealand. But it doesn't have to be that way.
Free Cervical Cancer Vaccination for Girls
Most of you will have heard about the cervical cancer vaccine that is being offered to all girls aged 12 to 18 years. The vaccine can help protect them from the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) that is the main cause of cervical cancer.
You or your daughter have probably received a letter from your usual doctor’s surgery to come and have their vaccination. We would encourage you to respond to this invitation as soon as possible to assist the Practice Nurse in ensuring that all eligible girls have received their invitation. The Practice Nurse will be able to answer any questions you may have about HPV and the vaccine.
Three injections in the upper arm over six months are required to complete the course.
If your daughter has not received an invitation please ring your usual general practice and request the free vaccination
If you do not have a doctor, you are welcome to go to any general practice for this vaccination.
What is cervical cancer?
- It's cancer of the cervix
- In more than 99% of cases this can be linked to an HPV infection
How does the vaccine protect young women?
- The HPV virus is spread through sexual contact
- The vaccine prevents women from being infected with specific types of the HPV virus.
