This archive report was first published on 17 October 2019.
Kenya has joined its neighbours in administering the free human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, thanks to the support of the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (Gavi).
Launched in 2019, the Sh.800 million project targets 800,000 10-year-old girls in its first year, with the aim of reducing cervical cancer cases in the country.
The vaccine will be rolled out alongside the existing routine infant vaccines, and those vaccinated will receive an immunization card, which will be used to establish their immunization status when travelling to other countries.
According to the Ministry of Health, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in Kenya, with about 40,000 new cases annually, after breast cancer.
HPV infections are associated with genital and anal cancers, and can also cause genital warts in both men and women, as well as oropharyngeal cancer when one performs oral sex on an infected person.
The vaccine reduces the risk of developing HPV-related cancers by preparing the body to fight against the viruses that cause the infections.
Administered before initial exposure to the virus, the vaccine is highly effective, and children aged 10 are mostly sexually inactive, making them the ideal age group for vaccination.
For those who receive the first dose before age 15, only two doses are required, administered six months apart.
The HPV vaccine is also recommended for boys, as it will protect them from HPV infections, lower the rates of transmission of the virus, and increase immunity, effectively preventing HPV-related diseases.
Although there are more than 100 types of HPV, the vaccine protects against specific types, including HPV 6, 11, 16, and 18, with the former two causing about 90% of genital warts and the latter two responsible for over 60% of cervical cancers.
It is essential to note that the HPV vaccine does not prevent every form of cervical cancer, and even those vaccinated should continue to go for regular cervical cancer screening.
