Dear Student, Parent or Guardian,
We are writing to you regarding the upcoming HPV Catch Up Programme for students currently in 5th and 6th Year in secondary school. This programme is designed to offer students who previously missed/declined HPV vaccination when they were offered it in First year, another chance to receive HPV vaccine.
HPV vaccine [Gardasil 9] aims to protect students against several strains of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) which is linked to health issues including several types o f cancer. Note: you do not need to do anything if you/your child has already received the HPV vaccine [Gardasil). Details of previous HPV vaccination would have been recorded on the Immunisation Passport [record] given t o each student on vaccination day.
The HPV Catch Up Programme will be delivered primarily in schools or in HSE clinics and the vaccine is free to all eligible students. The catch up programme will run until the end of this academic year in August 2026.
Who is Eligible?
• Male and female students currently in 5th & 6th Year who have not previously received HPV
vaccine
• Home Schooled and students attending special schools born between 1/9/06 and 31/8/09 who have not previously received H PV vaccine
How many doses of HPV vaccine are needed?
•Most students will only require one dose of HPV vaccine
•Students with a weak immune system will need 3 doses of HPV vaccine
Further information is available at www.hpv.ie
How will I arrange vaccination for myself/my child?
Students and parents/guardians can arrange a HPV vaccination by contacting the HSE North Lee Schools & Immunisation Team on 4225650, 4225649, 4225685 and requesting a consent form.
Yours Sincerely
Dr Sheila Creedon, MCRN 012971
Marie Therese Buckley, ADPHN
Vivienne Lingane, Staff Officer
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You can view an official copy of the letter issued by the HSE, here.
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