Current Context: The Government of India is ramping up the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination drive for girls aged 9–14, aligning with the 2024 Interim Budget.

About

• Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Over 200 virus types; 40+ are sexually transmitted.
• Types 16 & 18 cause most cervical cancer cases.
• World’s most common Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI).
• Often silent but can lead to cancer on persistence.

Vaccines in India

• Gardasil 4 (MSD) & Cervavac (Serum Institute): 4-type protection.
• Gardasil 9: Covers 9 HPV strains for broader immunity.

Government Action

• Recommended by National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI).
• Included in Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP).
• Focus on single-dose regime, frontline worker training, and awareness.

India’s Cervical Cancer Stats

• 25% of global cases; ~80,000 new cases, ~35,000 deaths annually.
• Lifetime risk for women: 1.6%; death risk: 1%.