HPV Vaccine
The HPV vaccine protects against cervical cancer, other cancers, and genital warts for both men and women. HPV spreads through skin-to-skin contact, often during sexual activity, and most infections show no symptoms. Strains 16 and 18 cause 70% of cervical cancers.
Who should take the HPV vaccine?
HPV vaccine is recommended under the National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) and National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) for:
- Girls and boys aged 9-26 years old for maximum efficacy, ideally before the onset of sexual activity.
- Adults up to 45 years old can consider vaccination after consulting with a healthcare provider, especially if not previously vaccinated or exposed to HPV strains.
Males are also at risk of other cancers related to HPV infection and can receive HPV vaccination.
What are the side effects of the HPV vaccine?
Side effects of the HPV vaccine may include pain or swelling over the injection site, as well as fever, headache, bodyache or tiredness.
These usually go away on their own within 2-3 days. Paracetamol can help to relieve the fever or pain.
What are the available HPV vaccines?
| Â | GARDASIL 9 | Cervarix |
|---|---|---|
HPV subtype protection | 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, 58 | 16, 18 |
Approved age | Females and males aged 9 to 45, or as advised by our doctors | Females aged 9 – 25, or as advised by our doctors |
Schedule | Females aged 9 -14: Two doses, six to 12 months apart. Females aged 15 – 26: Three doses at 0, 2 and 6 months | Females aged 9 -14: Two doses, five to 13 months apart Females aged 15 – 25: Three doses. Second dose at 1 to 2.5 months after the first dose. Third dose at 5 to 12 months after the first dose |
Cost | $245 (before GST) per dose | $90* (before GST) per dose CHAS Blue/Orange: $23 co-payment per dose CHAS Green: $45 co payment per dose |
What is the cost of the HPV vaccine?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take an HPV vaccine if I am above 26?
Yes, adults aged 27 to 45 years old can receive the HPV vaccine. While the vaccine is most effective before exposure to HPV, vaccination at older ages may still provide protection, especially for those who have not been exposed to all the HPV strains covered by the vaccine (using G9).
Can I take an HPV vaccine if I am a male?
Yes, the Garadasil 9 HPV vaccine is recommended for males aged 9 to 45 years old. It protects against genital warts and HPV-related cancers, including anal, throat, and penile cancers. Vaccination is especially important for boys aged 11-12, but men up to 45 can benefit too.
Should I take an HPV vaccine before I am sexually active?
Yes, it is best to get the HPV vaccine before becoming sexually active. The vaccine works best before exposure to HPV, which usually occurs with sexual contact. The ideal age for vaccination is 11-12 years old, but it can be given as early as age 9.
Who should not be vaccinated with the HPV vaccine?
The HPV vaccine should not be given to:
- Pregnant women (vaccination can resume after pregnancy).
- People with a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose of the HPV vaccine or any of its components.
How effective are the HPV vaccines?
HPV vaccines are highly effective, providing up to 99% protection against HPV types that cause cervical, anal, vulvar, vaginal, penile, and throat cancers. They also prevent genital warts caused by HPV types 6 and 11. The effectiveness is highest when given before exposure to HPV.
Is HPV vaccination compulsory?
No, HPV vaccination is not compulsory in most countries. However, it is strongly recommended as part of routine immunisation for boys and girls aged 9-26 years old. Singapore has HPV vaccination for school-aged children using Cervarix 2.
Should I still go for cervical cancer screening after HPV vaccination?
Yes, even if you have been vaccinated, you should continue to undergo cervical cancer screening (Pap smear/HPV test). The vaccine does not protect against all cancer-causing HPV strains, and screening can detect precancerous changes early.
How long does the HPV vaccine protection last?
Studies show that the HPV vaccine provides long-lasting protection for at least 10-15 years old, with no evidence of waning immunity. Ongoing research suggests protection may last much longer, but booster doses are not currently recommended.
Can I take the HPV vaccine if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
- Pregnancy: HPV vaccination is not recommended during pregnancy, but if a dose is accidentally given, it is unlikely to cause harm. Vaccination can resume after pregnancy.
- Breastfeeding: Yes, it is safe to get the HPV vaccine while breastfeeding.
