From the Inbox:

My main question is about HPV vaccine. At 16, [already had sexual encounters,  s/he] has definitely been exposed. Is there value in trying to catch them up with that one? Is there a “too late” point?

In short, no. While we obviously try to offer children HPV vaccine at early age, there is no “too late” point.

You can check eligibility and book an appointment here:  https://www.hse.ie/eng/health/immunisation/pubinfo/schoolprog/hpv/hpv-vaccine-catch-up-programme/ 

Facts:  HPV vaccines protects against 5% of all chancers, including cancers of the

• cervix

• vulva (the area surrounding the opening of the vagina)

• vagina

• anus

• oropharynx (the part of the throat at the back of the mouth)

• penis

The Catch Up programme is named after Laura Brennan. You can learn more about the work of Laura Brennan, who died at age 26 from cervical cancer, in the short award-winning documentary available on RTÉ player: This Is Me

There is much misinformation about vaccines.  Get correct information you can trust.  A good place to start is your GP or material online here:  https://www.hse.ie/eng/health/immunisation/pubinfo/schoolprog/hpv/hpv-information-materials/

#ThankYouLaura #ProtectOurFuture