With reference to Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Cervical Cancer month in January 2024, the Serum Institute of India (SII), recognized as the world's largest vaccine maker, is taking initiatives to dispel the misconceptions around HPV and create more awareness.
SII launched the 'IPledgeToPrevent' initiative, designed to promote awareness and prevention of HPV.In 2022, India approved its first indigenously developed HPV vaccine by Serum Institute of India – Cervavac. The Health Ministry is also planning to include the HPV vaccine as part of their Universal Immunisation Program.
In a promising advance in its fight against cervical cancer, India launched its first Indigenous quadrivalent human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine – Cervavac - a joint initiative between the Indian Government and the Serum Institute of India, the world’s largest vaccine manufacturer. Protecting against the virus strains most likely to cause cancer of the cervix, vagina, and vulva, the HPV vaccine will help India, and other nations, to make strides towards this goal.
Both females and males above 9 years should be vaccinated for the prevention of HPV associated cancers.Male partners can also carry HPV and transmit it to the female partner which may later developintocancer.