health
Expanded free HPV vaccination in Serbia: Now available up to age 45 in certain cases
In Serbia, expanded free immunization against the human papillomavirus (HPV) has begun, now including adults up to 45 years of age.
TL;DR
- Serbia's free HPV vaccination program now covers individuals up to 45 years old.
- Adults aged 27-45 need a specialist's recommendation to receive the vaccine.
- The vaccine provides long-term protection and helps prevent recurrent HPV-related issues.
- HPV is considered a transient infection, but can persist in some individuals.
- The nine-valent HPV vaccine costs approximately 13,000 to 18,000 dinars per dose for those over 45 not covered by the state.
- Serbia has vaccinated around 51,000 children and young people in four years.
- European countries, particularly in Northern and Western Europe, have high vaccination rates and have seen significant reductions in HPV-related cancers.
- Significant regional disparities in HPV vaccination coverage exist within Serbia.