Vacunación contra el virus del papiloma humano en estudiantes de escuelas públicas de Otavalo

Despite the availability of effective human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines, coverage in Ecuador is low. The study therefore aimed to describe adherence to HPV vaccination and related knowledge and perceptions among public school students in Otavalo. An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional, multicentre study was conducted with a sample of 400 students aged 13 to 15. Overall, 37.25% had no dose, 30% one and 32.75% two or more; 64.25% did not know what HPV is; and 53.5% believed the virus only affects women, although 75.25% considered the vaccine safe. It was concluded that comprehensive sexuality education and health-system presence in schools are needed.