From September, teens in England will only be given one HPV vaccine shot rather than two, in accordance with the most recent research and recommendations already in place in Scotland.
One dose, according to studies from around the world, is sufficient to offer effective defense against a variety of cancers, including cervical cancer.
When students are between the ages of 11 and 13, the vaccine is offered to them.
The common virus HPV is typically spread through close sexual contact.
Having close skin-to-skin contact makes it very contagious.
Infections with the more than 100 different types of HPV (human papillomavirus) typically have no symptoms, though some can result in warts on the hands, feet, genital area, or inside the mouth.
The majority of people's bodies eliminate the virus on their own; however, high-risk types can cause abnormal tissue growth that can result in cancers.
Those the vaccine guards against are responsible for:.
- almost every instance of cervical cancer.
- majority of anal cancers.
- a few forms of head and neck and genital cancer.
Studies show it to be very effective, reducing cervical cancer cases by almost 90%.
From September, a single dose will be made available to: in England.
- the 12 to 13-year-old students in Year 8.
- Males under the age of 25 who are available for sex.
Still, two doses will be given to:.
- 25 to 45 year old men who have sex with men.
To: three doses will be administered.
- human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive or immunosuppressed individuals.
Wales already made the transition to a one-dose schedule effective in September known.
Dr. Vanessa Saliba, an epidemiologist and immunization consultant for the UK Health Security Agency, stated that the HPV vaccination program is among the most effective in the world and has significantly decreased rates of cervical cancer and harmful infections in both women and men, preventing many cancers and saving lives.
The most recent research indicates that one dose offers protection that is just as strong as two doses. For young people, this is fantastic news.
It's crucial to get protected if you didn't receive your HPV vaccination. You can still receive the vaccine up until the age of 25, so make an appointment by getting in touch with your school nurse, the school immunization team, or your GP office. " .
Steve Russell, director of national screening and vaccinations, said: "This is another step forward for our HPV vaccination program, which saves lives by significantly lowering the risk of cervical cancer.
"People must come forward when asked because a quick HPV vaccination now makes it easier than ever to lower your risk of developing cancers brought on by the virus.
Booking an appointment for cervical screening, which checks for high-risk HPV and is still one of the best ways to prevent cervical cancer, is still essential in addition to getting the HPV vaccine.
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