Innovative HPV Vaccination Program in Odesa
In Odesa, the innovative program for vaccinating children against human papillomavirus (HPV) is being actively implemented with funding from the city budget.
Vaccinating children and adolescents against HPV effectively prevents future oncological and other reproductive system diseases.
HPV vaccination in childhood is a global standard for preventing the most common types of cancers associated with the virus. In Odesa, this preventive measure is part of the City Health Program.
The first vaccinations against HPV in Odesa were conducted in October 2023. Over 4500 children have been vaccinated so far, with about 2200 receiving their first dose and another 2300 completing the full two-dose vaccination course.
Currently, the program offers free vaccinations for girls and boys aged 9-14. This process may be adjusted as the Ministry of Health of Ukraine plans to introduce mandatory HPV vaccinations into the National Vaccination Calendar for certain population categories starting next year. Therefore, medical professionals advise parents of children in this age group to seek consultation and schedule vaccinations with their child's pediatrician.
Odesa has become the only city in Ukraine where free HPV vaccinations are provided to children, ensuring gender equality for both girls and boys.
The experience of our city in organizing HPV vaccinations for children and implementing the pilot project “Odesa Against Cancer” has received high praise from national experts.
