Child Vaccination Program in Odesa: Achievements and Future Plans
In Odesa, the innovative child vaccination program against human papillomavirus (HPV) is actively being implemented with funds from the city budget. This vaccination effectively prevents various diseases, including cancers, later in life.
The best age for HPV vaccination is between 9 and 14 years, before the start of sexual activity. During a vaccination conference, Levon Nikogosyan, the director of the Odesa City Council’s Health Department, reported that since October 2023, 1590 children have been vaccinated against HPV, with 858 completing the full vaccination course with two doses of the vaccine. Approximately 1500 more vaccinations are planned by the end of the year.
Currently, Odesa is the only city in Ukraine where both girls and boys are vaccinated against HPV free of charge.
“Vaccination is one of humanity's greatest inventions that saves many lives. I urge all parents to take their children’s health seriously and ensure they receive all necessary vaccinations on time,” emphasized Levon Nikogosyan.
A vaccination school took place on November 6, 2024, supported by the Odesa City Council Health Department and the Odesa Region Family Medicine Association. The event included pediatricians, family doctors, therapists, immunologists, allergists, infectious disease specialists, and professionals from other medical fields.
Doctors stressed the importance of timely vaccination for preventing outbreaks of infectious diseases and ensuring a favorable epidemiological situation in Odesa and across Ukraine.
Additional vaccinations, not included in the National Vaccination Calendar but recommended, such as against pneumococcal infection, were also discussed. Special attention was given to effective communication between healthcare providers and parents, as well as addressing common questions regarding vaccination.
