HPV vaccine communication: special considerations for a unique vaccine. 2016 update

Overview

This guide presents communication guidance for countries introducing human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine at the national or sub-national levels. HPV vaccination is a key strategy for comprehensive cervical cancer control and prevention. By the end of 2015, more than 65 countries introduced HPV vaccine into their national immunization programmes, with more than 30 of them were approved for Gavi-supported introductions.

HPV vaccine presents some challenging issues for communities. Concerns about the HPV vaccine are a common feature of its introduction. HPV vaccine is targeting girls before they become sexually active in order to prevent acquisition of a sexually transmitted infection (STI). WHO recommends that two doses of the currently licensed HPV vaccines be administered to 9–13-year-old girls to prevent infection with two types of human papillomavirus that account for about 70% of cervical cancer cases. The full benefits of HPV vaccine in reducing infection and the subsequent risk of cervical cancer will only be appreciated years and even decades after girls have been vaccinated. Countries introducing HPV vaccine should invest in a communication plan for the introduction and sustained delivery of HPV vaccine so that it becomes positively associated with adolescent girls and a socially-acceptable demanded service.