In a recent press conference addressed by Deputy Prime Minister & Health Minister Chris Fearne together with Charmaine Gauci, it was revealed that the government will be extending the HPV vaccination to young males as well.
Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is a very common STI among people in their late teens and early 20s. Amongst other symptoms, it is also known to cause cancer, which is why vaccination is recommended for children at age 11 or 12.
During the conference, Fearne reported that the vaccine will be extended to male recipients who welcome the government’s invitation, with over 90% of females accepting the invitation for their vaccine.
12-year-old girls are to receive two doses for free whilst 15-year-olds are administered 3 doses, saving a total of €150 on their vaccination.
The risk of uterus cancer drops drastically when taking the vaccine. Since 2013, Malta has offered the HPV vaccine to girls who have turned 12.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that “nearly everyone will get HPV at some point in their lives.”
#MaltaDaily