HPV vaccination

HPV, also known as Human Papilloma Virus, is a virus that can be transmitted through surface contact or sexual. HPV vaccination is given to both male and female to prevent HPV caused diseases such as warts and cervical cancer.

Most people with HPV usually never develop symptoms or health problems. Most HPV infections (90%) go away by themselves within two years. But, sometimes, HPV infections will persist and can cause a variety of serious health problems. Health problems that can be caused by HPV includes genital warts, cervical cancer and genital cancers (cancer of the vulva, vagina, penis, or anus).

The types of HPV that can cause genital warts are not the same as the types of HPV that can cause cancers.

HPV vaccines are recommended for 11- or 12-year-old boys and girls. HPV vaccines are safe and effective, and can protect males and females against some of the most common types of HPV that can lead to disease and cancer. HPV vaccines are given in three shots over six months; it is important to get all three doses to get the best protection. Boys and girls at ages 11 or 12 are most likely to have the best protection provided by HPV vaccines, and their immune response to vaccine is better than older women and men.

By giving the vaccine earlier, the complications of genital warts and cervical cancer can be prevented.