TEENAGE girls who missed out on the cervical cancer jab are being urged to take advantage of a catch-up initiative.

NHS North East Essex has organised special clinics for girls who have not completed the three-injection HPV vaccination course who have nor returned their consent forms to start the course.

Anne Robinson, lead HPV Nurse, said: “We are aware that a number of girls who by now should have had their HPV vaccine have not started or completed the vaccination programme. This year we are vaccinating Year 8 girls but in addition we are now able to provide a catch-up opportunity for those in other years who should have had their vaccination.

“Girls in Years 8 and 10 aren’t due their final vaccinations until June/July but if anyone in years 11, 12 and 13 haven’t started or completed their programme, I would urge them to take advantage of these extra opportunities to make sure they have this very important vaccination.

“It’s extremely important to finish the course to develop immunity to cervical cancer.”

The vaccine protects against the two strains of HPV that cause cervical cancer in more than 70 per cent of women.

The six special clinics are being held in Colchester, Clacton and Harwich between May 11 and June 7. Anyone who is eligible for a vaccination should contact the HPV team on 01026 518521.