What you need to know about the HPV vaccine

 

What does HPV Vaccine do?

The HPV vaccine protects against genital warts and cervical cancer. It can also offer some form of protection against vagina, vulva, penile, mouth, throat, head, neck and anal cancers caused by HPV.

How does the vaccine work?

It stimulates the body to build immunity for fighting against strains of Human Papilloma Virus.

What does it involve?

An injection into the upper arm.

How many times do I need to take it?

2 or 3 times. Depending on the age at which the first dose was taken.

Who is it for?

Male and females between the age of 9 and 14 years who are yet to be sexually active. Although, people who are still younger than 27 can still be vaccinated.

What if I am sexually active, over 26 years and desire to take the vaccine?

The goal of the vaccine is to prevent new infection. Therefore, people who have been sexually active may have contracted the virus which the vaccine can not work for.

You can get tested for HPV and discuss with your health care provider about getting the vaccine

Which brands are available?

Gardasil 9: Protects against 9 strains of HPV which are responsible for up to 90% cases of cervical cancer

Cervarix: Protect against types 16 and 18 strains of HPV and do not offer protection against genital warts.

Who should not take the vaccine?

  • A woman who is pregnant
  • A woman who had allergic reaction to a previous dose
  • Someone who is ill or has a fever

What the vaccine will not do

  • It will not make a girl promiscuous
  • It does not lead to infertility
  • It will not make you develop the virus

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