HPV Vaccine

What is Human Papillomavirus (HPV)?

HPV are known as risky viruses as they are linked to the development of cervical cancer, anal cancer, genital cancers, and cancers of the head and neck. HPV also causes warts and verrucas.

How is the HPV vaccine given?

The HPV vaccine is generally given as 2 doses of injections into the upper arm spaced at least 6 months apart.It' is essential to have both doses of the vaccine to be properly protected.

How does long the HPV vaccine protect for?

The vaccine protects for at least 10 years.

Who should get HPV vaccination?

Children and adults ages between 9 to 26 years.

HPV vaccination is recommended at age 11 or 12 years in routine; vaccination can be initiated at age 9 years. HPV vaccination is advised for all persons to age 26 years who were not vaccinated earlier. Persons who are pregnant then HPV vaccination should be delayed until after pregnancy.

How effective are HPV vaccines?

HPV vaccines are used to prevent cervical infection in women and young girls before their first exposure to the virus before individuals begin to engage in sexual activity. HPV vaccines also prevent infections in other tissues that HPV infects, including the anus, and oral region.

Why is HPV vaccination important?

The combination of HPV vaccination and cervical screening provides the greatest protection against cervical cancer and other cancers.

Should HPV vaccines needs to be given to people who are already infected with HPV?

People who have an HPV infection and/or an abnormal Pap test result should still receive the HPV vaccine if they are in the appropriate age group (9 through 26 years) because the vaccine mightsave them against high risk HPV types that they have not yet acquired.