The Department of Health is launching the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine for eligible Primary 5 girls under the Hong Kong Childhood Immunisation Programme. Primary 5 girls will be scheduled to receive their first dose of the vaccine at their respective schools, and will receive the second dose in the following academic year when they are in Primary 6, according to the recommended immunisation schedule. This time, paediatrician Dr. Lam Ka-yi shares more points to note regarding HPV vaccination.
The Department of Health, under Hong Kong's Childhood Immunisation Programme, is introducing the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine for eligible Primary 5 schoolgirls.The vaccination programme. Primary 5 female students will be arranged to receive their first dose of vaccine at their respective schools.
Human papillomavirus (also known as HPV)?
HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a group of viruses that includes over 150 different genotypes, of which about 40 infect the human genital tract (in both men and women).
Human papillomavirus can cause what problems?
HPV can be transmitted through sexual contact. Some high-risk HPV types can cause cellular changes and cancer (e.g. cervical, vaginal and anal cancers). The most common scenario is persistent infection in women with one of the oncogenic or high-risk types of HPV, which can lead to abnormal cell changes in the cervix, some of which may develop into cervical cancer over several years. Some human papillomaviruses are classified as "high-risk types" because they can cause cervical cancer. Other human papillomaviruses, known as "low-risk types", can cause genital warts. Studies show that approximately 75% of sexually active individuals will be infected with human papillomavirus in their lifetime, and most infected patients have no symptoms, with infections usually resolving naturally. Persistent infection of high-risk human papillomaviruses in women can lead to cervical cancer.
Human papillomavirus vaccine
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, also known as the cervical cancer vaccine, is a preventive vaccine that protects against cervical cancer and other cancers and diseases caused by HPV infection. In Hong Kong, approximately 90% of cervical cancers are caused by infection with HPV types 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58. The nine-valent HPV vaccine covers these seven HPV genotypes. However, the vaccine cannot treat HPV infection.
Why vaccinate in year 5? Can't it be done earlier?
Cervical cancer vaccines are most effective for women who have never been infected with the human papillomavirus, therefore, women who have never had sexual intercourse are the most suitable candidates for this vaccine. The World Health Organization recommends targeting girls aged 9 to 14 who are not yet sexually active as the primary group for HPV vaccination to prevent cervical cancer. Under the "Hong Kong Childhood Immunisation Programme", girls need to receive two doses of the HPV vaccine. The first dose is administered in Primary 5, and the second dose is administered in Primary 6.
Can men get vaccinated?
Okay
How are schoolchildren vaccinated? Can parents take their schoolchildren to a private doctor for vaccination themselves? Is there a cost?
From the 2019/20 academic year, the Department of Health has launched a Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme for eligible primary school girls under the Hong Kong Childhood Immunisation Programme. Primary 5 girls will be scheduled to receive their first dose of the vaccine at their respective schools and will be administered the second dose in the following academic year when they are in Primary 6, in accordance with the recommended vaccination schedule. Children who are unable to receive the vaccine at school, and eligible girls who are not studying in Hong Kong, can make appointments to receive the vaccine at the divisional offices of the Child Assessment Service.
Are all schoolgirls suitable for vaccination? Who is not suitable?
Those who have allergic reactions to yeast and vaccines, have immune system diseases, low platelet counts, or difficulty with blood clotting (e.g. prolonged bleeding after injections, injuries or tooth extractions), or who have a fever on the day of vaccination, are not suitable for vaccination.
Is the HPV vaccine safe? What reactions might occur after vaccination?
The nine-valent vaccine is expected to prevent the vast majority of cervical cancers. Cervical cancer vaccines have been used worldwide for many years. Extensive clinical testing and monitoring have not revealed any significant (abnormal) serious side effects from the vaccine. Any side effects experienced by individuals receiving the cervical cancer vaccine are minor and temporary. Common side effects are similar to those of other vaccines, including pain at the injection site and redness or swelling, rash or itching on the skin, fever, headache, and nausea. Following a comprehensive review of scientific research and data on adverse reactions to the cervical cancer vaccine by the World Health Organization and overseas health authorities, both have stated that scientific evidence proves the cervical cancer vaccine is safe and effective.
After receiving two doses, will I never need to be vaccinated again?
Existing research shows that vaccines are safe and effective, and their efficacy lasts for at least five years. Further research is still needed to determine whether booster shots will be required.
If children are vaccinated with the HPV vaccine, will it cause precocious puberty? Or an early start to menstruation?
Research shows that getting the HPV vaccine does not make children sexually active or have sex earlier.
Source: UrbanLife Health New Health Attitudes (13 September 2024): https://tinyurl.com/266up2tw
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