HPV疫苗进入免费接种的“最后冲刺”，能成功吗？

Core Viewpoint - The HPV vaccine is likely to be included in China's national immunization program by the end of the year, marking the first addition since 2008 and a significant policy shift after 17 years of stagnation [1][5][20]. Group 1: Current Status of HPV Vaccine - The technical assessment for including the HPV vaccine in the national immunization program has been completed, and it is currently in the inter-departmental negotiation and policy preparation stage [1][6]. - Since 2016, various types of HPV vaccines have been approved and used in China, with 16 provinces starting free or subsidized vaccination programs for girls aged 9 to 14 as of 2023, achieving over 90% coverage in some cities [2][3]. - Despite its availability, the HPV vaccine remains outside the national immunization program, leading to significant regional disparities in coverage, which is heavily reliant on local funding and public awareness [2][3]. Group 2: Historical Context and Challenges - Since the inclusion of the second dose of hepatitis A and B vaccines in 2008, no new vaccines have been added to China's national immunization program, despite many vaccines being recommended internationally [3][8]. - The lack of a systematic evaluation and transformation mechanism has contributed to this stagnation, with the National Immunization Technical Advisory Group (NIAC) established in 2017 still in its early stages and not fully operational [9][10]. Group 3: Recent Developments and Future Directions - Recent signals from the national level indicate a gradual expansion of the immunization program, with the NIAC emphasizing the need to narrow the gap between domestic and international immunization standards [5][21]. - The HPV vaccine is seen as a strong candidate for early inclusion due to its high disease burden and existing pilot programs [5][13]. - The establishment of a predictable mechanism for new vaccine inclusion is crucial, with recommendations for regular review processes, resource allocation, and inter-departmental coordination [15][16][19]. Group 4: Implications of Inclusion - The potential inclusion of the HPV vaccine could signify a broader restart of the immunization planning mechanism in China, addressing long-standing gaps in vaccine policy [7][20]. - The current discussions around the operational mechanisms, inter-departmental collaboration, and financial support are critical for the successful implementation of new vaccines into the national program [21][22].