Allergy Foundation Urges PMO to Reconsider Blanket HPV Rollout
Dr Nageshwar clarified that the foundation is not against HPV vaccination but expressed the need for data specific to the Asian population.
Hyderabad:The World Allergy Foundation has urged the Prime Minister’s Office to reconsider a blanket rollout of HPV vaccination in India, citing concerns over possible allergic reactions in certain individuals. City gynaecologists, however, said that while allergic reactions can occur, precautions and medical supervision are in place to manage such risks. They cautioned that delaying vaccination for extensive studies could lead to a rise in cervical cancer cases.
In a communication sent on March 7, the foundation, led by its founder president Dr Vyakarnam Nageshwar, highlighted risks linked to vaccines developed using Saccharomyces cerevisiae (baker’s yeast). The organisation also launched a public awareness slogan, “HPV Vaccination Not for All,” stressing the need for caution.
Dr Nageshwar clarified that the foundation is not against HPV vaccination but expressed the need for data specific to the Asian population. He recommended screening for yeast hypersensitivity and administering the vaccine under medical supervision.
According to the foundation, some individuals, including girls, may have yeast hypersensitivity, which could trigger reactions ranging from mild symptoms such as itching and rashes to severe conditions like breathing difficulty and, in rare cases, anaphylaxis.
The group cited a retrospective analysis at Aswini Allergy Centre in Hyderabad, where over 40 per cent of 300 patients showed yeast hypersensitivity. It warned that vaccination without prior screening could pose avoidable risks during mass immunisation drives.
The foundation recommended mandatory pre-vaccination screening, clear national guidelines, referral systems, and stronger monitoring of adverse events.
Responding to the concerns, Dr Shobha, gynaecologist at Gandhi Hospital, said that studies show Gardasil-4 is highly effective. “We follow precautionary measures, and not everyone develops allergies. Beneficiaries are observed for 30 minutes to an hour, and advised to report even mild symptoms. Vaccination is being carried out under proper medical supervision,” she said.