The Quebec population aged 21 to 45 can now be vaccinated free of charge against human papillomavirus (HPV) for a temporary period, in order to avoid wasting thousands of doses which will soon expire.
Adults who have never been vaccinated against these viruses will be able to be immunized free of charge by making an appointment on the Clic Santé platform.
The Ministry of Health and Social Services (MSSS) made the announcement Wednesday morning.
Doses too many
At the end of September, François Legault’s government extended the HPV protection program to those aged 20 and under, previously reserved for young people aged 9 to 17 attending a school.
• Also read: The HPV vaccine offered free to young people aged 20 and under: here’s why it’s excellent news
The Quebec Immunization Committee (CIQ) now recommends a single injection rather than two for those aged 20 and under, which they can also request on the Clic Santé platform. The vaccine will continue to be offered at school in the fourth year of elementary school, then in the third year of secondary school for students who have not received it.
However, some 150,000 excess doses of the Cervarix vaccine must now be used up before they expire in the months and years to come.
Free vaccination for those aged 21-45 will be in effect until stocks last, underlines the MSSS.
A very effective vaccine
HPV vaccines are 95% or more effective against cancers of the cervix, vagina, vulva, penis, anus, mouth and throat, said 24 hours the doctor specializing in public health and preventive medicine at the National Institute of Public Health of Quebec Chantal Sauvageau.
A single injection provides protection for at least 11 years, according to the CIQ.
The HPV family includes more than 100 types of viruses primarily transmitted through sexual contact.
• Also read: The HPV test will replace the Pap test and that’s good news
Some cause warts, cauliflower- or cockscomb-shaped warts that develop on the genitals, anus, mouth and throat. Others are at high risk of cancer.
When the HPV vaccination program launched in 2008, only girls were eligible. The boys were integrated there in 2014.
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