The World Health Organization’s advisory group on immunization has determined that a single dose of the human papillomavirus vaccine is now the most effective strategy for preventing cervical cancer. The recommendation marks a shift from previous guidance, as persistent HPV infection can cause multiple cancer types, with cervical cancer being the fifth most commonly diagnosed cancer among women. The vaccine prevents approximately 90 percent of these cancers from developing.
Under the new guidelines, girls aged 9 to 14 years should receive one HPV vaccine dose, though younger girls starting at age 4 may be vaccinated to improve coverage rates. The single-dose schedule can also be extended to unvaccinated women up to age 30 and boys through age 20, with women aged 25 and younger prioritized. Those who are immunocompromised, including people with well-controlled HIV, should continue receiving two doses, while severely immunocompromised individuals require three doses. The updated recommendations aim to help the WHO reach its goal of 90 percent global HPV vaccination coverage, currently at 33 percent.
Source: Read the full story at CIDRAP
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