HPV Vaccine

Became aware recently that the national campaign to vaccinate against the human papilloma virus (HPV) has been extended to include, eventually, all girls between the ages of 12 to 17.  Whilst this response to the virus, that caused the cervical cancer that sadly Jade Goody lost her life too, is to be welcomed there is no mention in existing NHS practise to provide for boys also.


The virus can cause various cancers including those affecting the head, neck and anus and as such males are also not immune from contracting it.  Indeed the risks for two young gay men could be significant.


As a Liberal Democrat I argue for equality on all issues.  It is important that we protect all our youngsters against HPV and don't use gender as a basis for deciding who should and should not receive this vaccination.


I shall write to the (Conservative) Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Public Health, Anne Milton, and canvass her opinion on this issue.

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