Health Minister Nísia Trindade released a crucial update on Brazil’s immunization program, announcing the transition to single-dose HPV vaccine administration. The change aims to increase vaccination adherence and expand protection against the virus, known to be the main cause of cervical cancer, as well as other types of cancer.
Trindade made the announcement through his X account this Monday, highlighting that the vaccine will be available to girls and boys aged between 9 and 14in addition to other specific groups identified by the National Immunization Program (PNI).
The minister also urged states and municipalities to carry out an active search for young people up to the age of 19 who have not yet been vaccinated against HPV, so that they can be immunized.
Previously, the HPV vaccination schedule consisted of two doses, administered six months apart. However, scientific studies have shown that single-dose application can result in greater adherence to the vaccine, a recommendation in line with the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for vaccination from the age of 9.
HPV is a virus with more than 200 known types, capable of infecting the oral, genital and anal mucous membranes, and can cause everything from warts to more serious cancers. The expectation is that, throughout their lives, 80% of sexually active adults will have contact with the virus.
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27 Mar
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26 Mar
The HPV vaccine made available by the Unified Health System (SUS) is produced by the Butantan Institute and is known as a quadrivalent vaccine, protecting against four forms of the virus (6, 11, 16 and 18). Meanwhile, on the private network, a vaccine is available that protects against nine types of the virus.
