In a significant advancement for public health, Guyana has officially transitioned to the 9-valent human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which offers broader protection against cervical cancer. The launch took place at the Diamond Regional Hospital on Wednesday, led by Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony.
The 9-valent vaccine is designed to safeguard against nine of the most prevalent HPV strains linked to cervical cancer, boasting an effectiveness rate of approximately 90%. Dr. Anthony emphasized that this new vaccine is not only safer and more effective than its predecessor, the quadrivalent vaccine, but also has a longer-lasting impact. “HPV vaccination has shown high seroconversion rates, significantly reducing pre-cancerous lesions and leading to a decline in genital warts,” he stated.
Cervical cancer remains the second most common cancer affecting individuals in Guyana, contributing to approximately 44,000 deaths globally each year. To combat this, the government is ramping up vaccination efforts. The uptake of the HPV vaccine has risen from about 17% in 2020 to an impressive 71% through various vaccination drives, though the World Health Organization recommends a target of 90%.
Dr. Anthony reassured the public regarding vaccine safety, noting that side effects are minimal and similar to those experienced with other vaccines. “There’s nothing unusual; it’s simply the body’s normal reaction to the vaccine. There is no cause for alarm,” he said.
The 9-valent vaccine is already utilized in many developed countries but is costly to procure. Guyana benefited from support from the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO), which helped source the vaccine from Merck & Co., saving the country approximately $17 million.
Vaccination will be available at health centers nationwide, with children aged nine to fifteen receiving two doses, while those sixteen and older will receive three doses. Individuals who previously received the quadrivalent vaccine can also switch to the 9-valent version.
In conjunction with the vaccination campaign, the Health Ministry has introduced a cervical cancer screening program, enabling women to access screening services with a voucher from the Ministry. This comprehensive approach aims to reduce the prevalence of cervical cancer and improve health outcomes for the population.
For those interested in receiving the vaccine, health centers across the country are ready to assist.
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