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Wolverhampton Information Network

Vaccinations: Children (12-18)

HPV Vaccine

All girls between the ages of 12 -18 years are offered the human papilloma vaccine (HPV) for free, it helps protect them against cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is the most common cancer in females under the age of 35.

The vaccine is first offered to girls aged 12-13 (year 8), followed by a second dose 6-12 months later. The vaccine is given via two injections in the upper arm.

HPV is a name given to a group of common viruses. HPV comes in many forms, some of which are considered to be higher risk than others, due to links with the development of cancers, like Cervical Cancer. Nearly all Cervical Cancers are caused by infection with a high risk type of HPV. HPV infections usually show no symptoms, meaning most people won’t know they have an HPV infection.

For more information on HPV and the HPV vaccination programme, please visit https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/hpv-human-papillomavirus-vaccine/

Td/IPV and MenACWY vaccine

Td/IPV, also known as the 3-in-1 teenage booster, is a single vaccination, injected into the upper arm and is given to boost protection against three serious and potentially fatal diseases: tetanus, diphtheria and polio. The vaccine is given to children aged 13-14 (Year 9), as part of the immunisation schedule.

At the same time as the Td/IPV vaccination, the MenACWY vaccine is also offered. The MenACWY vaccine is given via an injection into the upper arm and protects against four different strains of the meningococcal bacteria that cause meningitis and blood poisoning (septicaemia): A, C, W and Y.

As well as Year 9 children, this vaccine is also recommended for those starting university for the first time. University students are eligible for the vaccination until the age of 25, via their GP.

Cases of meningitis and blood poisoning (septicaemia) caused by a highly virulent strain of Men W bacteria have been rising since 2009. Teenagers and new university students are at a higher risk of contracting the infection because many of them mix closely with lots of new people, some of whom may be unknowingly carrying the meningococcal bacteria at the back of their noses and throats.

For more information on the Td/HPV, MenACWY and other vaccinations offered to children and young people and the diseases they protect against, visit https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/childhood-vaccines-timeline/

Flu Vaccine

Please see the below video of Caitlin, aged 13, having the flu nasal spray:

Here you will find out more information on flu vaccinations.

Here you will find out more information on Screening and Immunisations.

Record Last Updated on: 09/02/2023

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