HPV Vaccines: Who Requires It and How it Works

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the world.

There are nine various types of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). They include Type 16, 18, 6, 11, 31, 33, 52, 59, and 45.

Of these nine, the HPV types 16 and 18 are responsible for about 80% of cervical cancer cases. Types 6 and 11, on the other hand, significantly cause genital warts more than the rest of the other types.

HPV infections are passed on through skin-to-skin contact — coming in contact with a cut on the skin or close genital contact with an infected person.

Also, there are three different types of HPV vaccine. The most popular and effective HPV vaccine is known as the Gardasil 9. This vaccine helps vaccinate the human body against intrusion from all nine HPV types.

The HPV Vaccine

The HPV Vaccine is a crucial way of reducing the risk of getting infected by the Human Papilloma Virus.

●     Who Requires the Vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is usually recommended to be administered at the preteen ages i.e ages from 9-12. It is recommended this early to prevent any future HPV infection that could lead to genital warts or cancer.

Anyone between the ages of 9 and 45 is recommended to take the vaccine. Furthermore, anyone between the ages of 15 and 26 who haven’t had any dose of the vaccine before their 15th birthday is required to take three doses of it.

If the vaccine is taken before a child’s 15th birthday, only two doses are required to be taken. Also, the time-space between these two doses should be between 6 – 12 months.

For adults above 26, it is extremely important to consult their doctors to know if they can take the vaccine or not. At this age, the vaccine offers fewer benefits because most people at and above this age would most likely have already been exposed to the HPV virus.

Lastly, anyone critically ill, pregnant, or experiencing severe allergy issues — especially a yeast allergy — should avoid taking the vaccine completely or consult their doctor before doing so.

●     How it Works

Ever since the vaccine became popular around 2006, genital warts and cancers that are due to HPV infections have decreased by about 88% among young teenage girls and about 81% among young adult women. This is to say that the HPV vaccine is usually effective in preventing HPV infections. Plus, its effects are long-lasting!

●     Side effects

Despite its amazing benefits, the HPV Vaccine also has side effects. Thankfully, they’re mild and not life-threatening. The most common side effects include fever, swelling, pain, redness in the arm the vaccine was administered, headache, and dizziness.

In rare cases, the vaccine may cause anaphylactic allergic reactions in some patients. But, this is mostly due to allergic reactions the person taking the vaccine did not know of.

●     Where to get it

To get the vaccine, walk into any std testing center, clinic, or hospital around you and request it. If they don’t have it, you’ll be referred to another medical institution where you’ll get the HPV vaccine.

In conclusion, the HPV vaccine is a crucial way of preventing the Human Papilloma Virus. However, before you take the vaccine, endeavor to consult your doctor. You should be aware of any information regarding the vaccine’s effectiveness.

Reach out to us here as soon as possible to request a consultation with a certified health professional who would help you determine if this vaccine is safe for you or more information about the HPV vaccine.

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