HPV vaccine
What is the HPV vaccine and how does it protect?
The HPV vaccine is the best way to prevent certain subtypes of the HPV virus, which are associated with the appearance of warts and their possible development into malignancies.
HPV is a virus that has many subtypes and is responsible for the appearance of warts.
It is transmitted through sexual contact but also through direct skin contact with the affected area.
The HPV virus affects both men and women.
The vaccines available today are:
- Bipolar: against oncogenic subtypes 16 & 18.
- Quadrivalent: against oncogenic subtypes 16 & 18, but also non-oncogenic subtypes 6 & 11.
- Nine-potent: against oncogenic subtypes 16,18,31,33,45,52,58 but also non-oncogenic subtypes 6 & 11.
Logically, since the nine-potency vaccine protects against most subtypes, it has essentially replaced the previous 2 vaccines.
It is ideal to get vaccinated before the person becomes sexually active, i.e. at a young age where the body has not been exposed to any subtype of the virus.
However, this does not mean that the HPV vaccine cannot be given later in a person's life, even if they have been exposed to the HPV virus.
The HPV vaccine contains the HPV subtype, which is most commonly associated with cervical cancer.
Vaccination
The HPV vaccine is given in 3 doses, which must be given within 6 months.
Each dose contains, in an attenuated form, some subtypes of the HPV virus, thus helping the body to make antibodies.
After taking each dose, the patient should remain in the office for about 45 minutes, so that in case of an allergic reaction, take the appropriate action.
It is important to know that the vaccine is given free of charge by Facemed doctors.
Vaccination with the HPV vaccine in no way means that you have to stop the regular medical examination for any cellular lesions!
The HPV vaccine is not a cure for warts, but a way to prevent it!
Contraindicated cases:
The main cases in which vaccination is contraindicated are:
- Pregnancy
- Fever
- Allergy to some components of the vaccine
Frequently Asked Questions
If I have had the bipolar or quadrivalent vaccine, do I have to do the nine-potency vaccine?
Yes, the nine-potency vaccine prevents infection with more subtypes of HPV than the bipolar and quadrivalent vaccines.
If I have already had warts and am getting the vaccine, does that mean I will not have it again?
No, if there is already an infection with an HPV subtype included in the vaccine, then the body will make antibodies to the other subtypes.The HPV vaccine is one of the best ways to prevent it, but it is not a cure for warts.
Do I need to get a booster shot after a while?
Complete protection of the HPV vaccine is provided upon completion of the third dose and its duration is estimated at approximately 10 years. For the time being, there are ongoing studies when it comes to needing a booster shot after 10 years, or not.