Please see below for current information:

The committee that advises on vaccinations in the NHS was due to make recommendations about its introduction in spring 2007, but this has been delayed until autumn 2007. It may be that any final decision will be delayed further, or that a phased introduction of the vaccine will be suggested starting at some time in the future but only with girls aged 11 and 12.

There is no doubt that the vaccine is effective and works with no or minimal side effects, (no more than any other vaccine) but it is expensive and some private clinics are currently charging £450 for the course of 3 injections.

GARDASIL – ANTI CERVICAL CANCER VACCINE

Gardasil is a revolutionary new vaccine that has been specifically developed to prevent most types of cervical cancer, which is caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Cervical cancer is the second most common cause of death from cancer (after breast cancer) among young women (15 to 44 years) in Europe.

In susceptible individuals, infection can cause abnormalities in the cells of the lining of the cervix such that they begin to multiply out of control to form pre-cancerous warts, which can then develop into tumours. Gardasil provides effective protection against 70% of cervical cancers.

HPV is extremely commonplace and whilst not everyone suffers adverse reactions, more than 50% of the UK population carry or have at some time been infected by an HPV. Sexual contact is the primary method of transmission.

Other symptoms of HPV infection can include genital warts, which are usually benign, but on rare occasions can turn malignant, causing, vulval, vaginal, penile and anal cancer. Benign genital warts can cause discomfort and bleeding during intercourse, and treatment by laser can be difficult and painful. Gardasil protects against 90% of genital warts.

For maximum protection, the optimum time to administer the vaccination is before commencement of sexual activity, although risk of infection persists for as long as a woman remains sexually active.

Gardasil’s manufacturer, Sanofi Pasteur, has licensed it for use in 9 to 26 year old females.

Here are the answers to the most commonly asked questions:

How many injections do I need?
The vaccination course is for three doses, the second and third injection being given at two and six months after the first injection.

Does the vaccine stop all forms of cervical cancer?
The Human Papilloma Virus has more than 100 different types. Gardasil protects against types 6, 11, 16 and 18. These are the four most common types, accounting for approximately 70% of cervical cancers (types 16 and 18) and 90% of genital warts cases (type 6 and 11).

Will I still need to have cervical smears?
Yes. Gardasil prevents around 70% of cervical cancers. However, about 30% of cervical cancers are caused by HPV types not covered by Gardasil, which reinforces the importance of regular smear tests for early detection and cure.

If I have already been exposed to one of the four types of HPV covered by Gardasil, will I still benefit from vaccination?
Yes. Immunity will develop against the other three HPV types.

Will Gardasil help if I have developed cervical cancer already?
No. Vaccination is designed to protect your cells against initial HPV infection which ultimately can lead to abnormal pre-malignant cells and cancer.

Can I pass the virus to other people I come into contact with after I have been vaccinated?
No. Gardasil is a non infectious recombinant vaccine. In other words, it does not contain any live virus, but consists of virus like particles which stimulate the same immune response as the live virus.

What are the side effects?
About 1 in 10 people suffer minor side effects, which can include discomfort, swelling and redness at the injection site, and a fever. Occasionally, there can be some itching. Rarely, allergic skin rashes and a wheezy chest have occurred.

Are there any contra-indications to vaccination?
Gardasil should not be administered to anyone with a weakened immune system, any bleeding disorder, any allergy to Gardasil’s ingredients or a previous allergic reaction after Gardasil injection.

Gardasil should not be given to anyone with a high fever. Please note that a mild fever, cough or cold are not valid reasons to delay vaccination.

It is inadvisable to administer Gardasil during pregnancy and we will decline to treat anyone who is known to be pregnant or trying to conceive. It can be given in breast feeding women.

Licensing

Gardasil was licensed in the USA and Australia in June 2006 and received UK approval in September 2006. The licence is for use in 9 – 26 year olds as this is the age group in which clinical trials were performed.

The trend in the USA and Australia has been for the government to introduce vaccination for all 11 and 12 year olds. As yet, the NHS has not made any announcements on whether it will offer the vaccine and to whom.

Vaccination of Gardasil at Courtyard Surgery

Courtyard Surgery is able to vaccinate anyone who is not registered at Courtyard Surgery, even if they live outside of Horsham or indeed abroad.

Registered patients at Courtyard may contact Park Surgery in Albion Way where we have a reciprocal arrangement, and where they will be offered the vaccination for the same fee.

To book at Park Surgery telephone 0844 815 1511. The cost for vaccination at Courtyard Surgery and Park Surgery is £350 for the course. The cost includes a reasonable amount for the running of the service, disposables, nurse’s time, and we think it is appropriate.

The vaccination course is for three doses, the second and third injection being given at two and six months after the first injection.

We would insist on full payment to be made before the first vaccination by cash or cheque since we have to order the 3 doses and store the vaccine on an individual patient basis.

If you would like to make further enquiries, please contact us on 0844 815 1157.

Links to: Park Surgery Website: www.parksurgery.com
General information: www.tellher.com

CONSENT FORMS FOR DOWNLOAD

Please click the links below to download consent forms
 

	Gardasil: Parental Consent Form - For Persons under 16
	Gardasil: Consent Form – For Persons 16 and Over

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