Dear editor,

I’m usually cautious about vaccines. They are developed mostly from biological compounds from killed or weakened viruses, and used to help the body to naturally protect against diseases. This is done by stimulating the production of antibodies which build up immunity and resistance to diseases. Despite the arguments made against vaccines, it is fair to say that most vaccines have been largely successful in containing and reducing the spread of many diseases over the years, such as whooping cough, yellow fever, measles and mumps, which kill thousands.

Of course vaccines, like all medications can have side effects or trigger allergies, although usually only a small percentage is affected.

At the end of the day, the key is to be well informed in order to make healthy choices, in the best interest of ourselves and our families. There will always be anti-vaccine arguments, as long as vaccines exist.

I should add that the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is not new. This vaccine was developed over 10 years ago and used around the world to help to prevent HPV causing cancers. The Caribbean is just catching up and countries such as Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Cayman, Bahamas and Belize have already successfully implemented HPV vaccine programmes, without any problems.

Like other vaccines (and medicines), these must be medically approved to be safe and effective, before they can be dispensed and used. Certain strains of HPV are known to cause types of cancer ¬– cervical cancer, and cancers of the vulva, vagina, penis, and anus.

HPV can also cause orpharyngeal cancer (back of the throat, base of the tongue and tonsils. These cancers can also spread to other parts of the body and like most cancers if not caught early and treated, can result in death. HPV can also cause other health issues.

For those who may not know, HPV is spread through intimate body contact and sex. It is said that most adults carry strains of HPV without ever knowing, HPV is so common it is believed that nearly all sexually active persons will be infected at some point.

In most cases, the body is able to flush it out naturally and only certain strains of HPV are known to cause cancer. These strains are specifically targeted by the HPV vaccine.

The Jamaica Cancer Society has already endorsed the HPV vaccine initiative in Jamaica to reduce the risks and help to prevent HPV cancers. High risk groups of infection are young girls/women age 9- 26, and boys in the same age group.

I think to alleviate fears, we must continue to educate and inform, before implementing anything that could be deemed controversial or cause sceptics to resist.

People with concerns should first discuss with their doctor. However, I believe that any vaccine proven to be effective and safe to help prevent any form of cancer should not be blindly ignored.

P Chin