Vaccinations against the human papillomavirus (HPV) will be offered in Otago in both the school and community setting this year.
Otago project leader Jo-Anne Skinner said while most of the country had adopted school-based delivery of the vaccine, which is available for girls born since January 1, 1990, in Otago a broader approach had been taken.
Accordingly, the vaccine would be available this year through both a school-based programme for year 8 and 9 girls and through general practices and other community providers for older girls.
Anyone who knew of a girl who was eligible for the vaccine who would not be covered by the school-based programme this year should encourage them to contact their general practitioner about it, she said.
So far, it is not known how many schools will participate this year.
To receive payment for their support, schools must confirm their participation by the end of this month.
School vaccinations are expected to begin this term following special education sessions to help caregivers, parents and pupils learn more about the vaccination.
Mrs Skinner said it was important the decision about the vaccine, which is delivered in three doses over six months, was a well-informed one, made in the family context wherever possible.
Parental or guardian consent would be required for girls under the age of 16.
Next year, an extended school programme will be supported across Otago with the aim of reaching the remainder of school-age girls eligible for the vaccine.
Mrs Skinner said the ongoing programme would then be delivered to year 8 girls (age 12).
It was estimated that every year about 160 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer in New Zealand and 60 died from it.
The HPV strains which the vaccine is designed to pro-tect against are estimated to cause about 70% of cervical cancer.
Further details about the programme could be found on the Ministry of Health website, www.moh.govt.nz
