Human papillomavirus (HPV): Vaccination is extended to boys

The context

Human papillomaviruses are responsible for 8 locations of cancers (cervix, anus, oropharynx, vulva, vagina, oral cavity, larynx, penis). Each year, 6,300 new cases and 1,000 deaths are attributable to them in France.

About 80% women and men are exposed to it throughout their lives, especially at the very beginning of their sexual lives, as condoms do not provide sufficient protection. While most of the time the body can clear up these infections, they can persist and cause damage that can progress to cancer years later.

That's why HAS recommended only from 1^er January 2021 HPV vaccination should be extended to all boys aged 11 to 14 years, with possible catch-up in adolescents and young men aged 15 to 19 years. Until now, vaccination has only been recommended for girls aged 11 to 14 years, with catching up between the ages of 14 and 19 years, for men aged up to 26 years who have sex with men, and for adolescents of both sexes who are immunocompromised.

The vaccine

The vaccine

Gardasil 9

has been recommended for vaccination since early 2019. It protects against HPV-16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58 infections in the majority of affected cancers.

If young people are vaccinated before the beginning of their sexual life, the protection afforded is close to 100%.

The calendar

Vaccination takes place:

• for girls and boys aged 11 to 14 years: in 2 injections, 6 to 13 months apart;
• for a catch-up of the possible vaccination between 15 and 19 years (if it has not taken place between 11 and 14 years): in 3 injections, the 2^e takes place 2 months after 1^re and 3^e is carried out 6 months after 1^re.

Support

The vaccine is reimbursed to 65% by the Health Insurance, on medical prescription. Mutual and health care benefits can supplement the reimbursement. In some vaccination centers, vaccination may be free of charge.