Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral infection that can cause various types of cancers in both men and women.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that almost 80 million people in the United States are affected by the virus, and approximately 14 million more get infected each year. The HPV vaccine protects against the virus and can reduce the risk of various cancers and other health issues. In this article, we will delve into the importance of getting vaccinated for HPV and how it can impact your life.

What is HPV?

HPV is a viral infection that can be transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person. There are over 100 different strains of HPV, and some of them can cause genital warts while others can lead to cancer.

In most cases, HPV doesn’t show any symptoms and goes away on its own. However, for some individuals, the virus can persist and lead to various health complications including:.

Cancers of the cervix, vagina, vulva, anus, penis, or throat.
Genital warts.
Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) – a rare condition that affects the respiratory tract and makes breathing difficult.

The most common HPV strains that cause cancer are Types 16 and 18. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), these two types are responsible for over 70% of cervical cancer cases.

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women worldwide, with over 300,000 deaths each year.

What is the HPV vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is a vaccine that helps protect against the HPV virus. It’s recommended for both males and females between the ages of 9 and 45. The vaccine is typically administered through a series of two or three shots over a six-month period.

There are two HPV vaccines currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Gardasil and Cervarix. Both vaccines protect against HPV Types 16 and 18.

Gardasil also protects against HPV Types 6 and 11, which are responsible for about 90% of genital warts cases.

How effective is the HPV vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is highly effective in protecting against the strains of HPV it targets. According to the CDC, the vaccine can protect against up to 90% of HPV-related cancers.

The HPV vaccine doesn’t protect against all strains of HPV, and it’s still possible to get infected with the virus. However, even if an individual gets infected, the vaccine can still offer some protection against the strains it covers.

Who should get the HPV vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is recommended for both males and females between the ages of 9 and 45. The CDC recommends that individuals get vaccinated before they become sexually active to get the most benefit from the vaccine.

The vaccine is also recommended for individuals who have already been infected with HPV. The vaccine can still offer protection against the strains it covers and reduce the risk of getting re-infected.

It’s important to note that the HPV vaccine is not a cure for HPV or any related diseases.

Therefore, individuals who engage in sexual activity should still practice safe sex and undergo regular screenings for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Are there any side effects to the HPV vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is generally safe and well-tolerated. The most common side effects include:.

Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site.
Fever.
Headache.
Muscle or joint pain.

Serious side effects are rare, but they can still occur. Some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to the vaccine, which can lead to difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, throat, or tongue.

Individuals who experience any of these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.

The bottom line

The HPV vaccine is a crucial tool in protecting against various types of cancer and other health complications related to the HPV virus.

It’s recommended for both males and females between the ages of 9 and 45, and individuals who have already been infected with HPV can still benefit from the vaccine. While the HPV vaccine is generally safe and well-tolerated, individuals should speak with their healthcare provider to determine if the vaccine is right for them.