New Phase of Child Vaccination in Odesa
In Odesa, the implementation of an innovative vaccination program for children against human papillomavirus (HPV), funded by the city budget, is ongoing. This vaccination is crucial for preventing oncological diseases and other health issues in adulthood.
The vaccination against HPV is most effective for children aged 9 to 14 years, prior to the onset of sexual activity. During a vaccination conference, the director of the Health Department of Odesa City Council, Levon Nikozyan, reported that since October 2023, 1590 children have been vaccinated against HPV, with 858 of them completing the full course of two vaccine doses. By the end of this year, an additional 1500 vaccinations are planned.
Currently, Odesa is the only city in Ukraine where both girls and boys are vaccinated against HPV free of charge.
“Vaccination is one of humanity's brilliant inventions that has saved countless lives. I urge all parents to take their children's health seriously and ensure timely vaccinations,” emphasized Levon Nikozyan.
A professional vaccination school took place on November 6, 2024, supported by the Health Department of Odesa City Council and the Association of Family Medicine of the Odesa region. Pediatricians, family doctors, therapists, immunologists, allergists, infectious disease specialists, and professionals from other specialties participated in the program.
Medical professionals highlighted the importance of timely routine vaccinations for children to prevent outbreaks of infectious diseases and to maintain a favorable epidemiological situation in Odesa and throughout Ukraine.
Additionally, discussions included supplementary vaccinations not included in the National Vaccination Calendar but recommended, such as against pneumococcal infections. The school particularly focused on effective communication between healthcare workers and parents, addressing common questions regarding vaccination.
