British Schoolgirls to Get Anti-Cancer, HPV Vaccines

October 26, 2007 12:10 p.m. EST

London, England (AHN) - Health Ministers announced on Thursday that beginning September 2008, schoolgirls in Britain aged 12 - 13 years old will be vaccinated against the virus that causes cervical cancer.

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunization added that it is increasing the catch-up age for its vaccination program for 16 years old to 18.

Under the program, the schoolgirls would give a shot against human papillomavirus (HPV), which experts believe, could save hundreds of lives in the UK each year.

The vaccine, given in three injections over six months, will cost of $615 per course.