The vaccination rate for vaccination against the human papilloma virus (HPV) is currently less than 50 percent, which is an extremely poor value in international comparison.
“This vaccination, which is free for boys and girls between the ages of nine and twelve, prevents cancer and helps avoid surgery. Around 400 women develop cervical cancer in Austria every year.
With the vaccination, other cancers could also be eradicated,” said Rudolf Schmitzberger, head of the vaccination department of the Austrian Medical Association, at an online press conference in Vienna. Human papillomavirus is the cause of virtually all cervical cancer; and also responsible for anal, penile and ENT tract carcinomas. “Four out of five people become infected with these viruses in the course of their lives,” emphasized Maria Paulke-Korinek, vaccination expert at the Austrian Ministry of Health. “In Austria, there are 130 to 180 deaths from cervical cancer every year.”
Cheaper vaccination up to 18
If a preliminary stage of cervical carcinoma is discovered during a preventive examination by a gynecologist (smear test), a gynecological intervention is often necessary. This can lead to further problems. In Austria there are about 6000 such operations per year with – for example – a higher risk of premature birth.
The pandemic has resulted in a total failure of HPV vaccines – which were previously not well received. That is why the Chamber of Physicians and Pharmacists are now starting a “catch-up program”.
HPV vaccinations are therefore offered for one year at reduced rates for all 12 to 18 year olds. A vaccine dose costs 75 euros instead of the usual 200 euros in Austrian pharmacies, and the vaccination fee from a resident doctor is a maximum of 15 euros.
Celebrity Support
Picture book singer Maurice Ernst recently pointed out the importance of this vaccination in the ORF program “Welcome Austria”.
Source: Nachrichten
