UK Adopts One-Dose Guideline for HPV Vaccination

Fountain:

Own elaboration from various sources

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Introduction

In the past year, 2022, we highlighted on this website several relevant facts regarding vaccination against the human papillomavirus (HPV):

• The WHO evaluated the one-dose vaccination regimen, and in December, concluded by establishing that both regimens, one or two doses between 9 and 20 years of age, are equally effective and valid.
• The UK begins the process of switching to a single-dose vaccination schedule.
• Japan recovers, after years of suspension, the active vaccination recommendation.
• In Spain, Catalonia was the pioneer community in announcing the implementation of the vaccination of male adolescents (Communities of Valencia, Galicia and Murcia joined the initiative in September 2022). And in December, finally, the CISNS decides to include the vaccination of male adolescents from January 2023 in all communities.

As of 2023, Australia, Cape Verde, Bangladesh, the Solomon Islands, Mexico, Nigeria and Tonga have already adopted (or are in the process of adopting) the single-dose vaccination schedule, and the United Kingdom (UK) is now the country that takes the definitive step in the same direction: the regimen of a single dose of HPV vaccine in adolescents and young people up to 25 years of age. Some details of the latter are presented below.

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The process of changing the HPV vaccination regimen in the United Kingdom

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The content provided in the HTML file includes CSS styling and various elements such as images and tables. The main sections of the content are an introduction, information on changing the HPV vaccination regimen in the UK, advantages of the one-dose regimen, and additional information and references. In summary, the content explains that the World Health Organization has determined that one or two doses of the HPV vaccine provide equivalent protection. Many countries, including the UK, have switched to a one-dose regimen, which will be implemented starting September 2023. The UK has gone through an evaluation and decision-making process, including public consultation and an information campaign, before making this change.

What steps did the UK take before implementing the one-dose regimen for the HPV vaccine?

The UK took the following steps before implementing the one-dose regimen for the HPV vaccine:

1. Review of scientific evidence: The UK conducted a thorough review of scientific evidence on the efficacy and safety of the HPV vaccine, particularly for a one-dose regimen. This included studies from clinical trials and real-world data.

2. Consultation with experts: The UK sought advice from experts in the field of HPV vaccination, including epidemiologists, immunologists, and vaccine experts. These experts provided insights on the feasibility and potential benefits of a one-dose regimen.

3. Evaluation of cost-effectiveness: The UK evaluated the cost-effectiveness of implementing a one-dose regimen compared to the existing two or three-dose regimens. This involved assessing the potential economic impact and benefits associated with reducing the number of doses required.

4. Assessment of vaccine supply and logistics: The UK considered the current vaccine supply and logistics, ensuring that an adequate number of doses would be available for implementing the one-dose regimen. They also assessed the feasibility of delivering the vaccine effectively with the new dosage schedule.

5. Decision-making process: Based on the evidence, expert advice, cost-effectiveness analysis, and logistical considerations, the UK made a decision to implement the one-dose regimen for the HPV vaccine.

It’s important to note that the specific steps may vary slightly depending on the country and its healthcare system.