To mark International Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Awareness Day, the Health Directorate is launching a national survey to assess HPV vaccination coverage among young people aged 9 to 20.
In Luxembourg, HPV vaccination is recommended for boys and girls aged 9 to 14, with catch-up vaccination possible between the ages of 15 and 20.
A survey has been launched by the Health Directorate to gather the data needed to assess the current state of vaccination coverage. From 4 March, all parents of children aged 9 to 17 and all young people aged 18 to 20 will receive a letter inviting them to take part in the survey, which will be open until 30 April 2024. The online questionnaire will be accessible via a QR code indicated in the letter.
The survey conducted by the Epidemiology and Statistics Department of the Health Directorate is an initiative that will also help to understand vaccination behaviour in order to improve HPV vaccination coverage in Luxembourg.
What is HPV?
HPV is a virus that affects around 80% of men and women at least once in their lives. Although most infections disappear on their own, HPV can lead to serious health problems, including cervical cancer and cancers of the oropharynx, penis, anus and vulva.
Protecting young people against HPV
HPV vaccination is recognised as an effective measure for preventing HPV-related diseases such as cervical cancer and condyloma. Vaccinating young people between the ages of 9 and 14 can significantly reduce the risk of cancers linked to these viruses.
"It is essential that we have comprehensive data to assess vaccination coverage in order to effectively protect the health of our young people. This will help us to adapt our public health interventions and ensure that everyone has equal access to preventive measures against HPV-related diseases", explains the Minister for Health and Social Security, Martine Deprez.
For more information on HPV vaccination and how to take part in the survey, interested parties can consult sante.lu/hpv .
Press release by the Ministry of Health and Social Security