Practice News

HPV self-testing is now available

The NHS is introducing HPV self-testing for some women and people with a cervix who have not attended cervical screening following previous invitations.

If you are eligible, the NHS will contact you by NHS App, text message, email or letter and invite you to order a free HPV self-testing kit.

The test can be done at home or in a private space, without an appointment. You collect your own sample using a swab and return it to the NHS by post using the free return envelope provided.

What happens if HPV is found?

The self-test checks for high-risk HPV, which can increase the risk of cervical cancer. A positive result does not mean you have cervical cancer.

If high-risk HPV is found, you will be asked to attend a cervical screening appointment at your GP surgery or sexual health clinic. A nurse or doctor will then take a sample from your cervix to check for any cell changes.

Important to know

HPV self-testing does not replace routine cervical screening for people who are currently attending their screening appointments. We do not yet have evidence that self-testing is as effective at preventing cervical cancer as regular cervical screening.

If you have been invited for cervical screening, please continue to attend your appointment.

If you have previously missed cervical screening and are eligible for HPV self-testing, you will receive an invitation from the NHS. You cannot request a self-test kit unless you have been invited.

Even if you have had the HPV vaccine, you should still attend cervical screening when invited or complete an HPV self-test if you receive an invitation.

For more information, visit the NHS cervical screening information page.

Could you get a free NHS flu vaccine this winter?

• From 1 September 2026: Pregnant women, children aged 2 or 3, and primary/secondary school-aged children (reception to year 11).
• From 1 October 2026: Adults aged 65 and over, adults in clinical risk groups (18 to under 65), care home residents, carers, close contacts of immunocompromised individuals, and people experiencing homelessness.
• Frontline workers: Health and social care workers should get vaccinated via their employer. 

Changes in Community Dermatology Service

Cases of invasive meningococcal disease confirmed in Kent (Post from earlier in the year and moved to the news page)

Preventing the spread of meningococcal disease

The best way to stop the disease spreading is by giving antibiotics to the very close contacts of the patient with the illness. That usually means that only people who live in the same house as the sick person need treatment.

There are numerous strains of the meningococcal infection. The MenACWY vaccination gives good protection against MenA, MenC, MenW, and MenY and is routinely offered to teenagers in school Years 9 and 10. However, this vaccine does not protect against all forms of meningitis. Other strains such as MenB can circulate in young adults, which is why it’s important to know how to spot the symptoms of Meningitis and septicaemia as early detection and treatment can save lives.  

Symptoms of meningococcal disease

It is sensible to be aware of the main signs and symptoms of meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia, outlined below.

Some common signs and symptoms of meningococcal disease

One or more of these symptoms may develop and they can appear in any order.

Meningococcal disease can be hard to identify at first because it can be like a bad case of flu. However, anyone affected with meningococcal disease will usually become seriously ill within a few hours. You should keep checking yourself/ your child if they are unwell and contact your GP (family doctor) or NHS 111 for advice if you have any concerns.

If you become worried about your/your child’s condition, particularly if they are getting worse, seek medical help urgently at the closest A&E Department or by dialling 999.

Be watchful and use your instincts. Early treatment can be lifesaving.

Further information on meningococcal disease is available from:

The Meningitis Research Foundation, www.meningitis.org telephone: 0808 800 3344

Meningitis Now, www.meningitisnow.org telephone: 0808 80 10 388 helpline email address: helpline@meningitisnow.org