The jab is offered to school pupils aged 12 and 13 (Image: Getty)
Hundreds of thousands of young people are being urged to come forward for the HPV jab after missing it at school. The vaccine protects against human papillomavirus, which causes nearly all cervical cancers and is linked to cancers of the mouth, throat, anus, penis and vagina.
It is routinely offered each year to boys and girls in school year eight (aged 12-13). But records show that more than 418,000 children left school without receiving the vaccine in the last three years. GP practices across England will invite unprotected patients aged 16-25 to come forward for a catch-up jab.
Dr Amanda Doyle, NHS national director of primary care and community services, said: “This vaccine is hugely important in our fight to eradicate cervical cancer but it isn’t just for girls and women — it’s also vital for boys and men to get vaccinated to protect themselves against cancers of the mouth, throat or genitals, while preventing spreading the HPV infection to sexual partners who could then develop cervical cancer.
“Too many lives are lost to cervical cancer so the hard work of NHS staff across the country in vaccinating and screening as many people as possible will help us to meet our ambition of wiping out this disease.”
Around 3,300 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer every year in the UK and the disease claims around 850 lives annually.
Studies in England have shown that the HPV vaccine can prevent around 90% of cervical cancer cases.
In the 2023/24 academic year, 76.7% of girls and 71.2% of boys aged 14-15 were vaccinated by school year 10. The NHS hopes to boost uptake among girls to 90% by 2040.
Dr Doyle added: “Encouraging progress has been made recently in increasing uptake but we know there is much more to do.
“So if you’re eligible for a HPV vaccination or are the parent of a child who is eligible, but didn’t get the vaccine at school when they had the chance, I would urge you to come forward when your GP contacts you.
“Only a single dose is required and it could save you or your child’s life.” The vaccine can also be given to those up to age 45 with immune-compromised conditions and men who have sex with other men.
Dr Sharif Ismail, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, said uptake had “fallen significantly since the pandemic, leaving many many thousands across the country at greater risk of HPV-related cancers”.
He added: “This is a real concern as each HPV vaccine, now just a single dose offered in schools, gives a young person good protection against the devastating impact of these cancers, which includes cervical, genital, mouth and throat cancers.
“This new catch-up campaign is a really important opportunity for us to make sure that no teenage girl or boy, young woman or man is denied that protection.”
The pretty UK seaside town with a hidden beach named one of the best in the country
Llandudno in Wales has a secret beach that not many people know about. (Image: Getty)
The UK is home to a stunning variety of sandy beaches that attract visitors from all over the country, but these can often get overcrowded in peak times. If you’re looking for a quieter escape this summer then look no further than Llandudno in North Wales, which boasts its very own secret beach. The Victorian seaside resort has managed to retain some of its 19th century charm with its pier and promenade.
The more modern amenities, like the arcades and cable cars, make it the perfect destination for all the family. It’s no wonder Llandudno brought in millions of visitors over the past few years, with most of them descending on the popular North Shore Beach. However, there’s a hidden beach a little bit further away that can provide and welcome break from the crowds.
West Shore Beach is a quieter alternative to the busier areas of Llandudno. (Image: Getty)
West Shore Beach is just a short drive away from the town centre, lying at the opposite side of the headland and offering a much calmer atmosphere.
What the stretch of coastline lacks in arcades and rides, it makes up for in breathtaking views of the Conwy Estuary and Anglesey off in the distance.
Despite being less popular than its neighbour, West Shore Beach is a stretch of gorgeous sand, as opposed to the sharp pebbles that make up the North Shore.
Its waters are also shallow, making it a popular destination for kite surfers. There’s also a designated bathing areas for swimmers.
One person wrote on Tripadvisor: “One of my favourite beaches anywhere: unspoilt, dog friendly, free of kiosks and vendors – just sea, rock and sand. Stunning views of the Great Orme. Lots of parking.”
Another commented: “This beach is a fantastic spot, especially on a warm day. The wide sandy beach offers beautiful scenery, including clear views of the Great Orme and nearby mountains.
“It’s quieter than the main beach, making it perfect for relaxing. There’s quite a bit of parking nearby, which makes visiting easy. Overall, it’s a lovely place to enjoy the fresh sea air and peaceful surroundings.”
A third added: “West shore beach is a hidden gem in Llandudno and is a great day out. Beautiful views of mountains, the beach also has a nearby park, beach cafe and miniature railway.”
