On the recommendations of the World Health Organization and the National Immunisation Advisory Committee the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine was introduced into the state school immunisation programme in 2010 to protect girls from cervical cancer. HPV4 vaccine is offered by vaccination teams to 12-13 year old girls in their first year of second level school.
Since the programme started, uptake for the completed vaccine course has been above the target of 80% with figures for 2014/2015 of 87% (the highest since the programme began). However uptake figures for 2015/ 2016 dropped to 72% and figures for the first vaccine dose in 2016/2017 are estimated at 40-50%.
This decline is related to parental concerns about HPV vaccine safety. Lobby groups of concerned parents have been established and these groups have promoted vaccine misinformation through national and local television, radio and press and have been very active on social media outlets. This is of great concern to all those involved in cancer prevention.
In early 2016, the Irish health services consulted with other interested stakeholders who agreed to take a coordinated approach to tackling negative publicity and incorrect “facts”.
Firstly, focus groups on parents’ attitudes to and experience with HPV vaccine was carried out as well as social media analysis. The results of these influenced ongoing activities including liaison with relevant bodies, revision of information materials, enhanced website materials including short videos and social media campaigns.
Regular meetings are ongoing with health representatives of all parliamentary parties and interested public representatives to ensure their ongoing support. In addition, a comprehensive training programme for a wide range of health professionals has been implemented enhanced by the production of elearning modules.
Ongoing participation continues from the wide range of very active stakeholders in television, radio and print media interviews and other forums to inform parents of the facts about the safety and effectiveness of HPV vaccine.
A catch up vaccination programme has been implemented for girls who have missed out on the vaccine.
Public awareness of HPV vaccine has improved and media coverage is currently more balanced. Uptake figures for the 2016/17 HPV vaccination programme will be available later in 2017.
Based on previous experience, reversing the decline in vaccine uptake will require concerted long term efforts from all stakeholders to ensure girls in Ireland are protected from cervical cancer.
Health Protection Surveillance Centre. HPV Immunisation Uptake Statistics http://www.hpsc.ie/A-Z/VaccinePreventable/Vaccination/ImmunisationUptakeStatistics/HPVImmunisationUptakeStatistics/