China Approves First Male HPV Vaccine, Suitable for Ages 9-26!

The National Medical Products Administration has approved several new indications for the Gardasil vaccine (quadrivalent human papillomavirus vaccine, yeast-derived) by Merck & Co., suitable for males aged 9 to 26. This approval makes Gardasil the first and currently the only HPV vaccine approved for males in China.

The newly approved indications allow Gardasil to prevent anal cancer caused by HPV types 16 and 18 in males aged 9-26, as well as genital warts (condyloma acuminatum) caused by HPV types 6 and 11. Additionally, the vaccine is also indicated for preventing grade 1, 2, and 3 anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) caused by HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18.

Anna Tan, Senior Vice President of Merck Global and President of Merck China, stated: “The approval of multiple new indications for Gardasil in China marks a significant milestone after six years. This not only signifies Gardasil as the first approved HPV vaccine for males domestically but also contributes new strength to the development of public health in China.”

Since the approval of Merck’s HPV vaccine in China, it has protected the health of 51 million Chinese women. Merck believes that the approval of the new indications will further help protect more eligible males. The company will continue to fulfill its commitments in China, working closely with all sectors of society to raise public awareness of HPV-related diseases. Merck understands the importance of promoting HPV prevention for both genders and plans to strengthen cooperation with the government to significantly improve the accessibility and affordability of HPV vaccines, supporting the implementation and advancement of the Healthy China 2030 strategy.