People aged 15 to 45 years using HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) will be included in the priority group
People between the ages of 15 and 45 who take the so-called HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) will be included in the target population for the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in Brazil. The measure was announced in a technical note, published Wednesday 3, by the Ministry of Health.
According to the document, the recommended regimen for the group will be three doses, with intervals of two months after the first dose and four months after the second. People who are using PrEP but already have a full vaccination schedule should not be vaccinated again, while those who were previously vaccinated but have an incomplete vaccination schedule should complete the three doses.
The Unified Health System (SUS) offers the quadrivalent immunizer (HPV4), which protects against the four subtypes of the virus associated with a higher risk of leading to the development of cervical cancer and other types of tumors. Until then, the target audience consisted of:
- Children and adolescents aged 9 to 14 years, with a single dose regimen;
- People aged 9 to 45 years living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and AIDS; cancer patients, people with recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP), and transplant recipients, with three doses;
- Immunocompetent individuals aged 15 to 45 who are victims of sexual violence.
The Department of Health announced that making the HPV4 vaccine available to PrEP users can prevent HPV-related cancers in the most vulnerable populations, often due to several barriers related to social determinants, especially stigma. In addition, the ministry also emphasizes that the expansion of vaccination does not harm the population initially covered.
HPV
HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is the most common sexually transmitted infection globally. It is known to be associated with the development of most cervical cancers, as well as numerous other cancers in both men and women. It is also responsible for the appearance of warts in the genital region and anus, which can lead to cancer depending on the type of virus.
What is PrEp?
PrEP is one of the ways to prevent HIV infection. While HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is the emergency use of drugs, administered after a risky exposure, for a period of up to 28 days, PrEP is a planned prevention strategy, in which the person begins using drugs before potential exposure to the virus and for an indeterminate period.
To do this, you need to take a pill daily that contains two drugs: tenofovir and emtricitabine. However, it is important to note that pre-exposure prophylaxis does not prevent infection with other sexually transmitted diseases.
The drug is recommended for people aged 15 years and older, sexually active and at increased risk of contracting HIV infection. The prescription can be made by nurses, pharmacists and doctors in primary care or specialized services.
Also according to the folder, some situations that may indicate the use of PrEP are:
- Often stops using condoms during sexual intercourse (anal or vaginal);
- Repeated use of PEP (HIV post-exposure prophylaxis)*;
- Has a history of sexually transmitted infections;
- Areas of sexual relations in exchange for money, valuables, drugs, accommodation, etc.;
- Chemsex: sexual practice under the influence of psychoactive drugs (methamphetamine, gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), MDMA, cocaine, poppers) with the aim of enhancing and facilitating sexual experiences.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
