Get that HPV shot

Despite herd immunity for HPV in the West, it is necessary to be vaccinated

- FE FEATURES

A NEW STUDY reveals herd immunity for Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), indicating protection even for those unvaccinated. Does this mean the vaccine is proving to be inefficient or unnecessary? Dr Suranjit Chatterjee, senior consultant, internal medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, says: "No, herd immunity actually shows the vaccine is highly effective-not inefficient. Herd immunity occurs when a large portion of the population is vaccinated, reducing the virus's circulation and indirectly protecting even those who are unvaccinated. This doesn't mean vaccination is unnecessary; rather, it highlights how well the vaccine works

in preventing HPV transmission. However, herd immunity may not be uniform across all regions or HPV strains, and unvaccinated individuals remain at some risk. Continued vaccination is crucial to sustain this protective shield, especially as new generations grow up and vaccine coverage varies. Without ongoing immunisation, herd immunity can weaken, allowing the virus to resurface.”