Free HPV vaccines for 21-45 year-olds

Free HPV vaccines for 21-45 year-olds

On October 16th, the Ministère de la Santé et des Services Sociaux (MSSS) announced a temporary measure to offer the Cervarix bivalent human papillomavirus vaccine (HPV types 16 and 18) free of charge to healthy adults aged 21 to 45 who have never received the vaccine. CISSSO Planning and Vaccination Logistics Coordinator Frédérique Morin provided some details about the Outaouais vaccination campaign in a French-language interview with CHIP 101.9.

 

HPV infections are the most common sexually transmitted infections and people aged between 20 and 24 are particularly affected. The HPV vaccination program aims to prevent various serious lesions and diseases caused by these viruses, including:

– Cancers of the cervix, vagina, vulva, penis, anus and throat;
– Genital warts, also caused by HPV.

While the benefits of vaccination are greatest when administered before the onset of sexual activity, adults can also benefit significantly. Morin added that only one dose will be administered.

Many time slots are available in the Outaouais region to administer this vaccine while supplies last.  Eligible individuals can receive the vaccination free of charge by booking an appointment on the Clic Santé platform.