Casey poor in free vaccine uptake

PARENTS in the City if Casey are urged to help protect their daughters against cervical cancer and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) related illnesses.
And with the area having one of the lowest vaccination coverage rates in the state, Casey mayor Sam Aziz is encouraging residents to take advantage of the free vaccine, which also protects against four types of HPV, being offered as part of the National Immunisation Program.
“These figures are concerning as our young women will be at risk of a very preventable illness,” he said.
‘In fact, statistics from the Department of Health have shown a 50 per cent reduction in the number of high-grade cervical abnormalities in young women since the HPV immunisation program commenced in Victoria.
“While the cervical cancer vaccine course is free, there is no excuse for parents not to protect their daughters.”
Cr Aziz said parents risked paying more than $150 per dose from a health service provider, if administered after year eight.
“It is vitally important for parents to ensure their daughters complete the full, three-dose free vaccine course available as part of the annual secondary school vaccination program,” he said.
“Having the vaccine now can help protect your daughter against cervical cancer later in life.”
In Victoria, girls who enter the vaccination program in year seven have two years or until the end of year eight to complete the course. Doses are advised to be given within a six month period at intervals of two and six months following the initial dose.
Despite the proven effectiveness of the free vaccine, the Department of Health and the Cancer Council Victoria have noticed a state-wide lowering of immunisation rates for the vaccine.
If you are unsure of your daughter’s HPV immunisation record contact the National HPV Vaccination Program Register on 1800 478 734.
Missed vaccine doses can be obtained through public City of Casey immunisation sessions or your local health service provider. Bookings are required with the council to ensure availability of the vaccine.
For information on the council’s immunisation sessions phone City of Casey Customer Service on 9705 5200.