Update: 10:56AM THE Ministry of Health will start its second round of the human papillomavirus (HPV) in schools from Tuesday.
Advisor Family Health at the Ministry, Dr Josaia Samuela said so far over 17,200 of 9 to 12 year old girls in Fiji have received their first dose of the HPV vaccine (Gardasil).
He said the third dose will be given at school after the start of school next year.
Dr Samuela has reassured parents of the girls who have received the HVP vaccine and those who would be getting their first dose next year that there are no harmful side effects.
The side effects from HPV vaccine are similar to the side effects experienced by Class One students with measles, rubella and tetanus vaccine, he said.
The Ministry of Health completed its first round of the HPV vaccine in schools last month.
