HPV Vaccination Drive Targets Middle Schoolers in PACA Region
Marseille,France – A renewed push to vaccinate students against the human papillomavirus (HPV) is underway in schools across the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’azur (PACA) region,health officials announced today. The initiative aims to significantly increase vaccination rates among 5th-grade students-both boys and girls-before potential exposure through early sexual activity.
HPV is a common virus that can lead to several cancers, including cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers. While a highly effective vaccine exists, uptake in France remains low, lagging far behind countries like Australia where near-universal vaccination has dramatically reduced HPV-related illnesses.This new program seeks to reverse that trend by offering a convenient, two-dose vaccination schedule directly within schools, coupled with increased parental education.
Yves bubien, director of the regional health agency in PACA, emphasized the vaccine’s preventative power. “This vaccine is free and we know it eradicates 90% of preventable cancers,” he stated. “Yet, less than 10% of eligible students received the vaccine last year. That is simply not enough.”
The program will begin with initial vaccinations in January, administered by teams from the regional health agency. A second dose will be offered to students when they reach 4th grade, providing a staggered approach designed to allow for family discussion and informed consent.Parents will provide their approval through the Pronote school software platform. This phased rollout addresses concerns raised by school nurses, who requested more time for student and family education regarding the vaccine’s benefits.
Bubien expressed frustration with vaccine hesitancy, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. ”In France, the country of Pasteur, we seem to favor treating illness over preventing it! We have effective vaccines available.” He cited Australia as a model, where a 100% vaccination rate among young people has virtually eliminated HPV. Currently, approximately 40% of girls and less than 20% of boys in France have completed the full two-dose HPV vaccination course.
