The only vaccination against cancer so far has been expensive for adults: protection against HPV viruses costs around 650 euros for people over 21 years old – these can cause cervical cancer and other cancers of the genitals or throat. The vaccination should now be free nationwide for everyone up to the age of 30.
The plan is to offer the free vaccination campaign from June until the end of 2025. For Upper Austria, health official Christine Haberlander (ÖVP) expects around 60,000 additional HPV vaccination doses and costs of one million euros during this period. For comparison: about 17,000 cans were used in 2023.
It is hoped for a higher vaccination rate
The expansion of free HPV protection is intended to increase vaccination coverage. Skepticism about the needle is particularly great in Upper Austria, as shown by a study by the Gallup research institute.
While 27 percent of respondents across Austria tend to reject vaccinations in whole or in part, this figure is 39 percent in Upper Austria and Salzburg.
According to Gallup CEO Andrea Fronaschütz, the “differences between the states are likely related to the politicization of the issue during the pandemic.”
Skepticism about the pharmaceutical industry
The rejection is usually justified by the fact that vaccines primarily serve pharmaceutical companies and their profits (84 percent), followed by fear of side effects (79 percent). However, a large majority (almost three-quarters across Austria) are in favor of vaccinations.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
