China will include the HPV vaccine in its national immunisation program, as girls aged 13 can receive two doses for free.
In a bid to reduce the burden of HPV-infected diseases and better satisfy the needs of prevention and safeguarding people’s health, China will include the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in its national immunisation program starting from November 10.
HPV is the primary cause of cervical cancer and a major threat to women’s health. Over recent years, the cervical cancer incidence rate has been rising in China. Incidence rates among younger groups have also grown, making strengthened disease prevention more important than ever.
Health experts say vaccination is the most effective way to prevent infection. It is also the most affordable way to reduce the risk of cervical cancer and related diseases.
Research has revealed that after vaccination, girls aged between 9 and 14 can produce more than double the level of antibodies compared to girls aged 15 and above. And the vaccine efficacy can last as long as 10 years. Therefore, the nationwide free vaccination campaign for girls aged 13 is an effective and enduring shield for female health.
Willingness and Awareness Rise
The World Health Organisation recommends providing free HPV vaccines to girls aged 9 to 14. Its global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer aims to ensure that 90 per cent of girls are fully vaccinated — typically requiring two to three doses — by 2030.
Currently, both domestic and imported HPV vaccines are on the market in China. The country’s first homegrown nine-valent HPV vaccine was administered for the first time in September. Notably, clinical data show that the HPV vaccines already on the Chinese market can prevent more than 70 per cent of cervical cancer cases.
China approved its first HPV vaccine — an imported brand — in 2016. Since then, public willingness to get vaccinated has continued to rise, according to the National Health Commission.
“I always planned to get my daughters, aged 11 and 9, inoculated. I fully support the policy, as that means the country will select and provide reliable and effective vaccines for my girls,” Wang Li said. Wang, 36, is a mother of two young daughters in Jiangsu province.
Wang is one of many parents and health experts praising China’s move. The country has included HPV vaccination in the national immunisation program. This year, HPV vaccination services are available to all eligible girls.
Written by Yetao Gu, additional reporting by Xinhua and China Daily.
If you liked this article, why not read: China Approves First Homegrown 9-Valent HPV Vaccine
