Uptake rates for the human paplilloma virus (HPV) vaccination among girls has been strong and are exceeding targets, according to the HSE.

The routine programme for first-year secondary school girls during 2011/2012 has been well received, with an uptake rate of 86% for the three vaccine doses, up from 82% for 2010/2011, and well above the target of 80% uptake rate set by the HSE for completed course of vaccinations.

"In addition, a catch up programme was introduced in 2011/2012 for all sixth year girls and the rate for completed vaccination courses for sixth year students was also very strong with a 72% uptake, 12% above the target of 60%", the HSE said.

Most of the vaccinations, which can protect againt cervical cancer, were administered in schools by HSE immunisation teams, with some girls being invited to HSE clinics for their vaccine.

Prior to the vaccination, the HSE sent information packs and consent forms via the school for completion by parents, guardians or the girls themselves (for those in sixth year).

The HSE says the 2013/2014 programme will routinely provide vaccination for all first year girls. This is the final year of the catch-up programme for sixth year students who have not already had the HPV vaccine - some of these girls had HPV vaccine as part of the school programme in 2010/2011.

Meanwhile, the HSE has decided to cease the GP-based pre-school MMR booster vaccination programme in its north-east region.

The HSE has decided to deliver the programme entirely from its own clinics from October, according to a report in Irish Medical News.

See irishhealth.com's exclusive Child Immunisation Tracker