The World Health Organization (WHO) has updated recommendations for the HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine. In a new document, WHO says that a single-dose regimen may offer efficacy and duration of protection comparable to a two-dose regimen.
HPV is a leading cause of death for women worldwide
The recommendation for alternative single-dose scheduling was initially made by WHO’s independent expert advisory group, called SAGE, in April.
WHO says the guidance is timely in the context of a significant decline in HPV vaccine coverage worldwide. Between 2019 and 2021, first-dose HPV vaccination coverage dropped from 25% to 15%. This means that 3.5 million more girls missed their HPV vaccination in 2021 than in 2019.
According to WHO, the HPV single-dose application alternative could broaden access to the vaccine, giving countries the opportunity to expand the number of girls who can be vaccinated and reducing the effort required for follow-up often complicated and expensive. to complete the vaccination series.
“It is imperative that countries strengthen their HPV vaccination programmes, accelerate implementation and reverse declining coverage,” WHO said in a statement.
The document stresses the importance of vaccinating people who are immunocompromised or living with HIV as a priority. Immunocompromised individuals should receive a minimum of two doses and, where possible, three doses.
The primary target for vaccination are girls aged 9 to 14, before the onset of sexual activity. Vaccination of secondary targets, such as boys and older women, is recommended when feasible and convenient.
Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women and over 95% of cases are caused by sexually transmitted HPV. Preventing the development of cancer by increasing access to effective vaccines is a very significant step towards alleviating unnecessary disease and death, according to WHO.
Who can receive the vaccine in Brazil
The vaccine that protects against human papillomavirus (HPV) was gradually incorporated into the Unified Health System (SUS) starting in 2014.
The vaccination is available to anyone aged 9 to 14, regardless of gender. HPV vaccination in adolescents is used by more than 100 countries.
In July, the vaccine offer was extended to the immunosuppressed male population. Men up to the age of 45 with transplants, cancer patients or those living with HIV/AIDS can be vaccinated. According to the ministry, the traditional three-dose schedule is adopted, regardless of age.
With information from CNN Brazil
