The government recently introduced the human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccination, which protects against cervical cancer, for girls aged between 12-13.

However, Simon King, of the Naturality Wellness Centre, on Lower Kings Road in Berkhamsted, which offers chiropractic, massage, and counselling services, emailed newsletters to 400 patients about what the dangers of the jab could be.

He argues that the long term effects of the vaccination are not known and would not be for decades.

The newsletter read: "Africa is suffering an epidemic of immune deficiency, but since everyone in Africa was vaccinated against smallpox, it is impossible to tell whether the vaccination was the origin of Aids.

"The hardest thing about vaccination is that it is a choice and you (and your children) have to live with the consequences of that choice. It is too late to complain if your child suffers a seizure or irreversible brain damage once it is done (or gets polio or cervical cancer if you decide not to vaccinate).

"Whether you choose the vaccination or the natural route, the most important thing is, once you make the decision you stick with it and never feel guilty, no matter what the outcome."

He went on to say that none of his children have been vaccinated or seen a GP and that he would not contemplate vaccinating because 'the risks are too high and the chance of benefit is too small'.

Insisting the jab is safe Department of Health spokesman explained: "The HPV vaccine will save the lives of up to an estimated 400 women each year, it is irresponsible to raise inappropriate fears over vaccine safety in the absence of any scientific evidence that points to safety concerns.

In response Mr King, who lives in Boxmoor, said: "I don't think it's irresponsible to encourage people to ask tough questions about the vaccine. Is the department of health prepared to guarantee my patients that it's totally safe and won't have re-percussions in the future?

"It's up to my patients whether or not to have it. We should have faith in our bodies to look after themselves."

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