HPV VACCINE PROTECTS MORE THAN CERVICAL CANCER

HUMAN PAPILLOMA VIRUS

HPV vaccine prevents infection against certain types of human papilloma virus . Human Papilloma virus is the causative agent of cervical cancer . It is passed from one person to another through direct skin contact during sexual activity . Most of the people who are sexually active will get infected with HPV virus at some time in their life , but most of the infections are asymptomatic and self limiting . Infections most common in early 20’s . There are about 40 different types of HPV virus that can infect genital tract of men and women . But the most common types are HPV type 16 and 18 .

BENEFITS OF HPV VACCINE

HPV vaccine not only prevents cervical cancer but also genital warts and some other cancers like anal , vulval , vaginal and penile . There are two vaccines currently available in the market : Gardasil and Cervarix . Both of these vaccines protect against the two commonest type of HPV  ( HPV type 16 and 18 ) , which are responsible for 70% cases of cervical cancers .

TIME OF VACCINATION

Ideally the female should receive the vaccine before they become sexually active i.e at 11-12 years of age . Once a female is sexually active she is already exposed to HPV virus so it is best given before resuming sexual activity . Women who are already sexually active may also benefit from the vaccine but to a less extent . Both vaccines are given in three shots over 6 months time period .

COST OF VACCINATION 

It costs about 390$ for full course .

SIDE EFFECTS

It can cause pain , redness and swelling at the site of injection . May cause GI effects like nausea , vomiting and diarrhea . Very rarely it may result in breathing difficulty , dizziness and changes in heart rate .