The cervical cancer vaccination campaign, originally set to resume in September, has been postponed until next year. This decision was announced Thursday by the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), the Ministry of Health, and the GGD.
With a major swine flu outbreak anticipated, there won't be sufficient capacity for the campaign this fall. Additionally, 12-year-old girls scheduled for the cervical cancer vaccine cannot receive it if they have a fever from swine flu, according to the organizations. Authorities are gearing up for a large-scale Mexican flu outbreak.
The cervical cancer vaccination was added to the National Immunization Program this year, providing three injections to girls starting at age 12. Girls aged 13 to 16 who began their series before the summer break can complete the remaining doses post-holidays. Officials aim to resume the full program next year as planned.
Find answers to frequently asked questions about swine flu here.
