News Release                             For Immediate Release

                                                                                                                       August 2, 2007

HPV School Based Immunization Program

The Grey Bruce Health Unit will offer the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to female students in grade eight beginning this fall. 

Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty announced today the province will offer the free school based vaccine program to prevent the spread of HPV and save lives. The vaccine provides protection against four types of HPV, including the two types that cause 70% of cervical cancers. 

“It is an exciting development to be able to prevent cancer with a vaccination,” says Grey Bruce Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Hazel Lynn.

The vaccine consists of three doses given over six months. The vaccine is licensed for females 9-26 years of age. Any female, not in grade eight but still eligible, may access the vaccine from their family physician or through Public Health at a cost of approximately $150.00 per dose.

Other jurisdictions, including Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and the state of Texas are also implementing this program.

For more information, please contact a Public Health Nurse in the Vaccine Preventable Disease Program at 519-376-9420 or 519-881-1920.

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Attachment:  HPV vaccine backgrounder

For More Information:

Hazel Lynn, MD, FCFP, MHSc

Medical Officer of Health

Grey Bruce Health Unit

519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 ext. 269