Nicaragua began the free national vaccination day against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), aimed at girls between 10 and 14 years old, in which it is planned to vaccinate 300 thousand minors, for the prevention of cervical cancer.
The Minister of Health of the Latin American nation, Martha Reyes, explained: “We are ready to vaccinate approximately 300,000 girls with an introduction of this vaccine that involves practically 5.1 million dollars.”
Free HPV vaccination in Nicaragua
Likewise, the Nicaraguan representative emphasized that the vaccine is free of charge and will provide protection against HPV disease number 18; while in the private sector its cost can range between 100 and 150 dollars per dose.
HPV vaccination
“This introduction of this vaccine becomes the axis that establishes all aspects, because it is not only about detecting and treating, now we have the opportunity to protect our girls from childhood and be able to guarantee that they do not develop the virus (HPV). let alone develop cancer,” Reyes previously noted.
Likewise, she explained that this vaccination campaign will take place from November 6, 2023 to January 15, 2024, where the first dose will be applied, and highlighted that, subsequently, in a period of six months, the girls will receive the second dose, to ensure an optimal level of immunity and prevent the development of the disease.
HPV is a common viral infection that is transmitted mainly through sexual contact and affects the reproductive organs in both men and women, and can cause genital warts and precancerous lesions that, in some cases, can progress to cancer, including neck cancer. uterus, vulva, anus, as well as in the mouth and throat.
You can read: Nicaragua rejects resolution of the UN Human Rights Council for disrespect for its sovereignty
The prevention of cervical cancer constitutes a public health priority for the Nicaraguan government led by President Daniel Ortega, and in this sense, the vaccination campaign is presented as an essential tool in the fight against this disease.
You may be interested in: Most Latin Americans support the creation of a new multipolar world
The Nicaraguan Ministry of Health reported that the vaccine offers a high level of protection against Human Papillomavirus infection, with an approximate effectiveness of 98 percent. In addition, he announced that, in a second phase, the vaccination scheme will be applied to girls between 9 and 10 years of age.
