IMM's free HPV vaccination program begins!

The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) has launched a free HPV vaccination program to combat this virus that threatens public health. Here are the details of the vaccination campaign announced by IMM Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu:

IMM will begin accepting applications for the free HPV vaccination program starting May 16. The vaccine will initially be administered to individuals experiencing socioeconomic hardship. Applications for the vaccine, which will be provided free of charge to individuals aged 9-26 residing in Istanbul, can be made via the address https://forms.ibb.gov.tr/saglik/ibb-hpv-formu/. The HPV vaccine will be administered according to the appointment order. 

TO BE CONDUCTED AT IMM MEDICAL CENTERS

Istanbul residents who meet the criteria for the vaccine and whose applications are approved will be able to receive their free vaccinations by coming to the Şehzadebaşı Medical Center, Darülaceze Medical Center, and Esenyurt Integrated Public Health Centers, which operate under the IMM Department of Health. 

To ensure effective protection, the vaccination will be administered in two doses for individuals aged 9-15 and three doses for individuals over 15. Once vaccination begins, it will be mandatory to receive the subsequent doses within a specific period depending on the age group.

Individuals aged 9-26 and their parents who wish to benefit from the vaccination program starting tomorrow can apply for the free HPV vaccine via the address https://forms.ibb.gov.tr/saglik/ibb-hpv-formu/.

WHAT IS HPV?

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a virus that is transmitted from person to person. The HPV virus is a family consisting of multiple virus types that affect the skin and mucous membranes. There are various variations of HPV, and while some can cause infections, others may not cause any symptoms at all. The most common symptom is warts that form in the genital area. However, some types are significantly carcinogenic and are the leading cause of cancer types such as cervical cancer, especially in women. It can also cause anal cancer and penile cancers in men. In fact, studies have observed that the types of cancer it causes are not limited to the genital area; it can also lead to head and neck cancers as well as throat cancer.

HOW IS HPV TRANSMITTED?

Sexual Contact: Sexually transmitted HPV types are usually transmitted during sexual contact. The virus is passed through contact with the skin or mucous membranes of the genitals. Skin contact during sexual intercourse can cause the spread of HPV.

Skin Contact: Some types of HPV can be transmitted through skin contact. This is especially associated with warts that occur on skin outside the genital area. Touching or coming into contact with areas where warts are present can lead to the transmission of the virus.

During Birth: An HPV-carrying mother can transmit the virus to her baby during birth. This usually occurs as a result of infected tissues in the birth canal coming into contact with the baby's eyes, mouth, throat, or skin.

Genital Warts: Low-risk types of HPV can cause genital warts. Touching areas where genital warts are present can cause the virus to be transmitted.

 Personal Contact and Shared Use: The risk of HPV transmission through personal contact and shared items is minimal. However, the possibility of transmission through these ways is not zero.

News Source: 12punto