HPV Vaccine
What is an HPV vaccine for?
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine aims to protect against infections caused by certain types of HPV, which can lead to various cancers and other health issues. The vaccine specifically targets the high-risk strains of HPV that are most commonly associated with cervical cancer, as well as other cancers such as those of the oropharynx, vulva, vagina, anus, and penis.
There are three types of HPV vaccines available: Gardasil, Gardasil 9, and Cervarix. Gardasil 9 offers the most comprehensive protection as it protects against 9 strains of HPV, including those that cause the majority of HPV-related cancers and genital warts.
The protection provided by the HPV vaccine is long-lasting, with studies indicating high levels of effectiveness for at least 12 years after vaccination without evidence of waning immunity. Moreover, widespread vaccination has the potential to drastically reduce the incidence of HPV-related cancers worldwide by up to 90%, which makes it a critical tool in cancer prevention.
How does an HPV vaccine work?
The HPV vaccine works by leveraging the immune system’s ability to recognise and respond to specific threats. It contains virus-like particles (VLPs) that resemble the outer shell of the HPV virus but do not contain its genetic material, so they cannot induce infection. When the vaccine is administered, these VLPs are recognised as foreign by the immune system, which responds by producing antibodies specifically targeted to the HPV types present in the vaccine.
This initial exposure not only helps the immune system neutralise the virus if encountered in the future but also establishes immunological memory. This means that if the vaccinated person later comes into contact with the HPV virus, their immune system can quickly respond with the pre-formed antibodies, preventing the virus from establishing an infection.
Who should receive the HPV vaccine and when is it recommended?
The HPV vaccine is primarily recommended for preteens, typically at ages 11 or 12, but it can be administered as early as age 9. This early vaccination is crucial because it offers protection before potential exposure to HPV, which usually occurs through sexual activity. The vaccine is also recommended as a “catch-up” vaccination for teenagers and young adults who did not receive it at the recommended age.
For adults aged 27 through 46 who have not been vaccinated, the decision to get the HPV vaccine should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider. In this age group, the vaccine is still beneficial and effective in protecting against HPV infection, and hence it is still highly recommended, despite one may have a higher chance of being exposed to HPV.. However, some adults may still benefit from vaccination, particularly those who are at risk for new HPV infections.
Who should not get the HPV vaccine?
The HPV vaccine is generally safe for most people, but there are specific groups who should avoid receiving it:
- Individuals with severe allergies: people who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to any ingredient in the HPV vaccine, or to a previous dose of the vaccine, should not receive it. This includes severe allergies to yeast, as some formulations of the HPV vaccine, like Gardasil and Gardasil 9, contain yeast.
- Pregnant women: the HPV vaccine is not recommended for women who are pregnant. While there is no evidence to suggest the vaccine is harmful during pregnancy, it is advised to delay vaccination until after pregnancy. However, women who are breastfeeding can safely receive the vaccine.
- People with moderate or severe illnesses: individuals who are moderately or severely ill should wait until they recover before getting the HPV vaccine. This recommendation is not due to concerns about vaccine safety but to avoid any confusion between the symptoms of the illness and the potential side effects of the vaccine.
These guidelines help ensure that the HPV vaccine is administered safely and effectively, minimising risks while maximising its protective benefits.
What are the benefits of HPV vaccines?
The HPV vaccine offers several significant health benefits, primarily centred around its ability to prevent infections caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) types that are linked to various cancers and other health conditions. Here are the common benefits:
- Prevents over 90% of HPV-related cancers.
- Reduces the incidence of cervical precancers.
- Protects against genital warts.
- Contributes to herd immunity, reducing HPV spread.
- Provides long-lasting protection for at least 12 years.
What are the common side effects of the HPV vaccine?
The HPV vaccine is generally well-tolerated, but some individuals may experience mild side effects, including:
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site: this is the most common side effect, occurring in the majority of people.
- Fever: some individuals may develop a mild fever after receiving the vaccine.
- Dizziness or fainting: fainting is more common among adolescents and can occur after any vaccination, including the HPV vaccine. It is recommended to sit or lie down for 15 minutes after the injection to prevent falls.
- Headache, fatigue and nausea: these are also reported but are generally mild and short-lived.
- Muscle or joint pain: some people might experience mild discomfort in their muscles or joints after vaccination.
These side effects are usually mild and temporary, with no long-term health risks identified in extensive studies.
How is the HPV vaccine scheduled?
The HPV vaccine is typically administered in a series of two or three doses, depending on the age at which the first dose is given:
- Ages 9-14: for individuals who receive their first dose between ages 9 and 14, the vaccine is usually given in two doses. The second dose is administered 6 to 12 months after the first dose.
- Ages 15-26: for those who start the vaccination series at age 15 or older, a three-dose schedule is recommended. The second dose is given 1-2 months after the first dose, and the third dose is given 6 months after the first dose.
These schedules ensure optimal protection against HPV-related diseases. It’s important to complete the entire series to achieve full immunity. If you miss a dose, you should talk to your healthcare provider about when to get the next one, but there’s no need to restart the series.
If you have any questions about scheduling the HPV vaccine or want to learn more about how it can protect your health, please contact our staff at Ardennes Health for detailed information.
Frequently asked questions
Can the HPV vaccine be given alongside other vaccines?
Yes, the HPV vaccine can be administered at the same time as other vaccines, such as the Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) vaccine and the meningococcal vaccine. This is often done during the same visit for convenience and to ensure full protection against various diseases.
Is the HPV vaccine required for school attendance?
In Singapore, the HPV vaccine is not mandatory for school attendance. However, it is part of the national immunisation program, and the Ministry of Health strongly recommends it for females aged 9 to 26 as a preventive measure against cervical cancer.
Can I get the HPV vaccine if I’m already sexually active?
Yes, even if you are already sexually active, the HPV vaccine can still offer protection against HPV types you haven’t yet been exposed to. It’s beneficial to discuss your specific situation with your healthcare provider to determine if vaccination is right for you.
Do women who received the HPV vaccine still need to have Pap tests?
Yes, women who have been vaccinated against HPV should still follow regular cervical cancer screening guidelines, including Pap tests. The vaccine does not protect against all cancer-causing HPV types, so screening remains an essential part of preventive healthcare.
Can men benefit from the HPV vaccine?
Absolutely. The HPV vaccine helps prevent cancers of the throat, anus, and penis in men, as well as genital warts. Vaccinating men also helps reduce the spread of HPV to their partners, providing broader public health benefits.