What is the vaccination against cervical cancer and who is eligible?
The vaccination against HPV (Human Papillomavirus, sexually transmitted) is a primary preventive measure against cervical cancer. A pap smear screening, (secondary prevention) may sometimes miss the lesions, hence the usefulness of the vaccine. This vaccination for all girls and young women aged 14-23 years who have not had sex or, later in the year following the onset of sexual activity. The vaccine is stored in the refrigerator. Three intramuscular injections are distributed at 0, 2 and 6 months for the vaccine Gardasil and 0, 1 and 6 months for the vaccine Cervarix, without a reminder. The vaccine is reimbursed at 65% and no smear or HPV test is needed in advance. There is currently no indication to vaccinate boys. Finally, it must be remembered that the protection brought about by this vaccine, although important, is not total. So even among the vaccinated, it is recommended to continue the pap smear every 3 years.
Victor Hugo