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CANBERRA, Australia, Nov 29, 2006 (UPI via COMTEX) -- Australian Prime Minister John Howard has announced a $342 million cervical cancer vaccination program.
Howard told reporters the government was adding the cancer drug Gardasil to its subsidized health program after negotiating a lower price with the vaccine's distributor and developer, CSL Limited.
Earlier this month, a government advisory body vetoed the use of Gardasil, citing the expense of the three shots of the vaccine.
But beginning in April, all girls aged 12 and 13 will be vaccinated while a catch-up program will also operate through schools for those 14 to 18.
Gardasil will also be available through primary care physicians for the next two years for women aged 18 to 26.
"It's a wonderful breakthrough in providing women protection from cervical cancer," Howard said.
URL: www.upi.com Copyright 2006 by United Press International
