Health Ministry issues urgent call for HPV immunization as infection rates hit 80%
The Ministry of Health of the Republic of Moldova is urging citizens to contact primary care physicians for Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination. Health officials warn that 80% of the population will contract the virus at some point, often without showing any visible symptoms.
HPV is highly transmissible through direct skin-to-skin or mucosal contact, extending beyond sexual transmission. While the immune system often clears the virus naturally, persistent strains can lead to severe complications, including various forms of cancer in both men and women.
Medical experts emphasize that the virus's asymptomatic nature makes prevention critical. Because a single exposure can lead to infection, the Ministry stresses that vaccination is most effective when administered before any potential exposure.
Free access for children and young adults
The vaccine does not treat existing infections but provides long-term protection against the most dangerous high-risk strains. Health authorities describe the decision to vaccinate as a responsible step for both personal health and community safety.
In the Republic of Moldova, the HPV vaccine is provided free of charge for children and young adults. The government-funded schedule mandates a single dose for girls and boys aged 9 to 14, while those between 15 and 26 receive a two-dose regimen.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
