The Dominican Republic has taken a significant step forward in public health by integrating the nonavalent Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine into its national immunization program. This advanced vaccine will be administered free of charge to children aged 9 to 14 years through the country’s extensive healthcare network.
Health Minister Víctor Atallah announced that the new vaccine formulation provides protection against nine high-risk HPV strains—specifically types 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58. This represents a substantial improvement over the previously used quadrivalent vaccine, offering broader coverage against virus variants known to cause cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases.
The vaccination initiative, operating under the banner “Health is a priority to protect your future,” forms a crucial component of the government’s enhanced preventive healthcare strategy for youth. Health authorities confirmed the vaccine’s availability through 40 Provincial Health Directorates and more than 1,400 vaccination centers nationwide.
According to immunization protocols, most recipients will require only a single dose, while immunocompromised children may receive two doses for optimal protection. The official rollout ceremony occurred at the Hospital Infantil Dr. José Manuel Rodríguez Jiménez, symbolizing the program’s focus on pediatric health.
Alba María Ropero Álvarez, representing the Pan American Health Organization, highlighted the significance of this development, noting that the Dominican Republic now joins an exclusive group of nations—including Argentina, Canada, Chile, and the United States—that have incorporated this latest-generation HPV vaccine into their national health programs. Medical research indicates this nonavalent vaccine prevents over 90% of HPV-related cancer cases, marking a substantial advancement in cervical cancer prevention efforts.