Yeusvi Flores: Vaccination makes a difference

The HPV vaccine trains the immune system to protect itself against the most dangerous types of the virus. Currently, there are vaccines that protect against types 16 and 18 (highly carcinogenic), and some newer versions also cover types 6 and 11 (which cause genital warts), as well as other cancer-causing types.

In Mexico, the Ministry of Health recommends vaccinating girls and boys ages 9 to 14, ideally before they become sexually active, women up to age 45 if they have not been vaccinated, and people living with HIV.

The current schedule for the general population includes a single dose for girls between 9 and 14 years old, thanks to recent studies that have demonstrated its high effectiveness with this modality.

And boys too? Yes! Vaccinating boys not only protects them from penile, anal, and throat cancer, but also helps reduce transmission of the virus, indirectly protecting their future partners.

Millions of doses have been administered worldwide with an excellent benefit-risk ratio. The most common side effects are pain at the injection site, mild fever, and general malaise. It does not contain live viruses, so it cannot cause infection.

The vaccine is offered free of charge in schools and public health centers during specific campaigns. It can also be purchased at private pharmacies. Ask at your nearest medical center.

Vaccinating our daughters and sons is an act of love and prevention. HPV is preventable. The vaccine saves lives, reduces the risk of cancer, and brings us closer to a future where HPV is no longer a silent threat.

Let's talk, inform, and vaccinate.

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