HPV in Germany: what you need to know and how to protect yourself
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common infections in the world. Most people come into contact with it at some point in their lives, often without even realising it.
In most cases, the body clears the virus on its own, but some types of HPV can lead to the development of cancer, including cervical, anal, penile and oropharyngeal cancer.
It is important to know that HPV prevention and early detection are part of the healthcare system in Germany, and some of these services are covered by health insurance.
What is the situation regarding HPV in Germany?
Germany has been implementing a national policy for the prevention of HPV-related diseases for many years. The main tools are the vaccination of adolescents and organised cervical cancer screening.
Experts believe that the country has all the necessary medical and organisational capacity to gradually move towards the WHO’s goal of eliminating cervical cancer. At the same time, vaccination coverage remains lower than in some other European countries, which is why information campaigns and educational programmes are continuing.
How is HPV transmitted?
HPV is transmitted primarily through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal and oral sex. It is not necessary to have multiple partners or symptoms of the disease for the virus to be transmitted. Often, a person may not know that they are a carrier of the virus.
This is precisely why prevention and regular screening are so important.
HPV vaccination in Germany
In Germany, the Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends HPV vaccination for all girls and boys aged between 9 and 14. If the vaccination was not administered at the recommended age, it can be caught up on until the age of 17. Health insurance usually covers the cost of this vaccination.
Some health insurance funds also reimburse the cost of the vaccination for young adults over the age of 17, although conditions may vary depending on the insurance provider. It is advisable to check with your health insurance fund directly before getting vaccinated.
It is important to understand that the vaccine does not treat an existing infection, but it does provide effective protection against the most dangerous types of HPV, which cause the majority of cervical cancer cases and a number of other cancers.
Screening in Germany: who is eligible and when can they be screened?
Since 2020, Germany has had an organised programme for the early detection of cervical cancer.
Women aged between 20 and 34 are offered an annual PAP test (cervical smear).
For women aged 35 and over, a so-called co-testing programme is carried out once every three years, which includes:
a Pap test; a test for high-risk HPV.
This combination enables precancerous changes to be detected at an early stage and significantly reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer.
Most Ukrainians residing in Germany under the temporary protection programme have access to health insurance through one of the statutory health insurance funds. This means they can access preventive healthcare services on an equal footing with German citizens.
If you are living in Germany:
Find a gynaecologist or GP (Hausarzt) Request a translation from us by telephone (if needed) Find out when you are recommended to have a screening. Check your vaccination status. Consult your doctor about vaccination if you have not been vaccinated before. Do not miss preventive check-ups, even if you feel healthy.
Today, Germany relies on two key strategies to combat HPV: mass vaccination of adolescents and regular screening of the adult population. These measures are also available to Ukrainians living in the country. Regular check-ups and timely vaccination are the most effective ways to protect yourself from the consequences of HPV and reduce the risk of developing cancer.