HPV Vaccine Singapore – HPV Prevention & What You Need To Know
HPV (Human Papillomavirus) Vaccine:
An Overview
1. What Is HPV (Human Papillomavirus)?
The human papillomavirus, also known as HPV in short, is a viral infection that is passed from person to person via physical skin contact. 8 out of 10 people are estimated to have HPV infection at some point of their lives, making HPV one of the most commonly transmitted STIs (sexually transmitted infections) around.
2. Why Get HPV Vaccinated? – HPV Vaccine Singapore
The HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine can prevent infection with some types of human papillomavirus. There are many different types of HPV just like flu or COVID-19; over 100 different HPV strains, to be exact; with over 40 of them being transmitted via sexual intimacy. They affect mainly the throat, mouth and genitals.
The 2 major groups of HPV we are more concerned about are the ones that cause the following:
A. HPV infections can cause certain types of cancers, including:
- cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers in women
- penile cancer in men
- anal cancers in both men and women
- cancers of tonsils, base of tongue, and back of throat (oropharyngeal cancer) in both men and women
B. HPV infections can also cause anogenital warts.
HPV vaccine can prevent over 90% of cancers caused by HPV.
HPV is spread through intimate skin-to-skin or sexual contact. HPV infections are so common that nearly all people will get at least one type of HPV at some time in their lives. Most HPV infections go away on their own within 2 years. But sometimes HPV infections will last longer and can cause cancers later in life or genital warts.
3. HPV Vaccine Singapore
HPV vaccine is routinely recommended for adolescents at 11 or 12 years of age to ensure they are protected before they are exposed to the virus. HPV vaccine may be given beginning at age 9 years and vaccination is recommended for everyone through 26 years of age.
HPV vaccine may be given to adults 27 through 45 years of age, based on discussions between the patient and health care provider.
Most children who get the first dose before 15 years of age need 2 doses of HPV vaccine. People who get the first dose at or after 15 years of age and younger people with certain immunocompromising conditions need 3 doses. Your health care provider can give you more information.
HPV vaccine may be given at the same time as other vaccines.
4. The Essence Of The Ailment
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) can infiltrate various areas of both male and female bodies. With a multitude of strains akin to COVID-19, HPV is classified into two primary groups: 1) High-risk, which can cause cervical cancers in women, penile cancers in men, and anal cancers in both genders, and 2) Wart-causing, responsible for genital warts in both sexes.
5. The Shielding Effect
The HPV vaccine diminishes the risk of contracting common strains from each group. At DTAP Express, we offer the latest vaccine version, providing protection against nine prevalent HPV strains, some of which cause cancers and others warts.
6. Anticipating The Aftermath
Typically, the HPV vaccine necessitates three doses over six months. However, those aged 9 to 14 years require only two doses, administered six months apart. Most individuals experience no issues after vaccination, though some may have mild soreness at the injection site or a slight fever, which can be eased with paracetamol.
7. The Intended Recipients
Individuals of both sexes, aged nine years and older, are eligible for the HPV vaccine.
Speak to our certified vaccinators and get yourself and your loved ones protected.
Tags: HPV Vaccine Singapore
HPV Vaccine Singapore FAQs
What does this vaccine protect against?
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) types 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58; these types of HPV can cause genital warts or certain genital, anal, and oral cancers
Who is eligible for this vaccine?
Males and females from 9-45 years old are eligible; individuals who have received a previous type of HPV vaccine (e.g. Cervarix or Gardasil) are still eligible to take Gardasil 9 for additional coverage
What is the dosing interval for this vaccine?
For 9-14 years old: 0, 6 months
For 15-45 years old: 0, 2 months, and 6 months
What are some possible side effects?
Pain, redness, swelling at injection site; headache, fever, nausea, muscle or joint pain
How long does this vaccine last?
Current evidence suggests long term, sustained protection against HPV infection; no additional or booster doses necessary after primary series
Can this vaccine be taken together with other vaccines, e.g. COVID vaccines?
Yes, this vaccine can be taken together or a short time before or after other vaccines, including the COVID vaccines
Can I take this vaccine if I am pregnant?
As there are currently no studies in pregnant women, it is not recommended for pregnant women to get this vaccine
Who will administer the vaccine?
The vaccine will be administered by a trained and certified vaccinator
Can I get an MC for the day of the vaccination?
No as only doctors are allowed to issue MC; However our vaccinator can provide you with a timesheet when you come for the vaccination
Are there any restrictions after my vaccine? E.g. food/drinks, exercise, etc.
There are no restrictions or other limitations to note after this vaccine