Hong Kong Announces Free HPV Vaccine Catch-Up Program for Young Women
Hong Kong is taking proactive steps to combat cervical cancer with a new catch-up vaccination program. Starting December 2nd, 2024, eligible young women between the ages of 15 and 21 will have the opportunity to receive the nine-valent HPV vaccine completely free of charge. This program aims to boost immunization coverage and protect women from HPV-related cancers.
Eligibility and Phased Rollout
The program is targeted at female residents of Hong Kong born between 2004 and 2008 who have not completed their HPV vaccination. The rollout will occur in three phases:
- Phase 1 (Starts December 2, 2024): Full-time female students in Form 5 or above (or equivalent), including those in special schools, will be the first group to benefit. Vaccination teams will visit schools directly.
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Phase 2 (First Quarter of 2025): The program will expand to include women born between 2004 and 2008 who are currently studying at tertiary institutions or universities in Hong Kong. Details about the implementation of this phase will be announced closer to the time.
- Phase 3 (First Half of 2025): Female Hong Kong residents born between 2004 and 2008 who have completed their local studies will be eligible during this phase. Specific details about the registration process for this phase will be provided in due course.
"HPV vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer," said a representative from HKDH. "This catch-up program will provide a critical opportunity for young women who missed their initial vaccinations to protect themselves against HPV-related illnesses."
Protecting Against HPV
The decision to offer a free catch-up program underscores the seriousness of HPV infection in Hong Kong. It’s been established that approximately 90% of cervical cancer cases in the region are linked to HPV types 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58. The nine-valent HPV vaccine targets all these high-risk HPV genotypes, providing comprehensive protection.
Convenient Access
Making the vaccine easily accessible is a key priority for the Hong Kong government. Those enrolling in the program through schools will have the vaccine administered directly on campus by participating healthcare teams. Further details about registration and clinic locations for Phases 2 and 3 will be provided as the program unfolds.
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Importance of Vaccination
The program is a significant step forward in the fight against cervical cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) strongly supports HPV vaccination as a key public health measure. Hong Kong has already made strides in its vaccination program by including HPV vaccination as part of the childhood vaccination schedule for girls aged 5 and 6 since the 2019/20 school year.
This latest catch-up initiative is designed to reach young women who weren’t eligible for the childhood program and ensure they have access to this vital protection against HPV-related cancers.
Taking Action
For more information about the program, eligibility, and registration, visit the Center for Health Protection website (https://www.chp.gov.hk/tc/).
2024-12-02 05:13:00
#Free #HPV #Vaccine
## Protecting teh Future: An Expert Interview on Hong Kong’s Free HPV Vaccine Program
**World Today News:** Hong Kong has recently announced a free catch-up HPV vaccination program for young women. This is a significant step towards combating cervical cancer. Today, we are joined by Dr. Lily Chan, a leading oncologist and researcher at the hong Kong University School of Medicine, to discuss the implications of this program.
**Dr. Chan, welcome. This program marks a turning point in Hong Kong’s fight against cervical cancer. Could you elaborate on the importance of HPV vaccination in this context?**
**Dr. Chan:** Thank you for having me.HPV, or Human Papillomavirus, is a common sexually transmitted infection. While most HPV infections clear up on their own, certain high-risk types are strongly linked to cervical cancer, as well as other cancers like anal, throat, and vulvar cancer.
Vaccination against HPV is the most effective way to prevent thes cancers. It works by introducing the body to weakened or inactive particles of the virus, triggering an immune response and creating antibodies that protect against future infection.
**This catch-up program targets young women aged 15-21. Why is this age group specifically crucial?**
**Dr. Chan:** The optimal time for HPV vaccination is before exposure to the virus.
Most individuals become sexually active during their late teens and early twenties. By vaccinating this age group,we aim to provide protection before they are potentially exposed to HPV.
**Hong Kong has already implemented a school-based HPV vaccination program. How will this new catch-up program complement existing efforts?**
**Dr.Chan:** While our school-based program has achieved good coverage, it’s crucial to address the gap for those who missed out, perhaps due to absence, transfer, or personal matters. This catch-up program allows us to reach these individuals and ensure broader protection within the target age group.
**What impact do you foresee this program having on cervical cancer rates in Hong Kong in the long term?**
**Dr. Chan:** we anticipate a significant reduction in cervical cancer rates over time.
Studies have shown that HPV vaccination programs have already lead to a decline in cervical pre-cancerous lesions,indicating that we are on the right track. With this free catch-up program, we can further strengthen these preventative measures and safeguard the future health of Hong Kong’s women.
**World Today News:** Dr. Chan, thank you for sharing your insights on this critically important initiative. We hope this program will inspire other regions to prioritize HPV vaccination and contribute to a world free from HPV-related cancers.
