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Who should get the HPV vaccine?

Who should get the HPV vaccine?

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Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is an essential tool in the fight against certain types of cancers, including cervical cancer, as well as other diseases caused by HPV. Understanding who should receive this vaccine is crucial to ensure maximum protection across the population.

Recommendations for Adolescents

In the UK, the HPV vaccine is primarily targeted at adolescents, with a routine immunisation programme aimed at pre-teens and teenagers. The National Health Service (NHS) recommends that the vaccine be administered to all children aged 12 to 13 years. This is typically offered through secondary schools as part of the school-based vaccination programme. The vaccine is most effective when given before individuals become sexually active and are at risk of exposure to HPV.

Catch-up Programmes for Older Adolescents

For those who may have missed the vaccine when it was first offered, catch-up programmes are available. These are generally aimed at females up to the age of 25 and males up to the age of 25 who missed the vaccine in school. By providing access to the vaccine up to this age, the NHS seeks to ensure that those who did not receive it at the recommended age still have the opportunity to be protected.

Vaccination for Males

Initially, the HPV vaccination programme in the UK focused on girls due to the strong link between HPV and cervical cancer. However, recognising the benefits of reducing HPV-related diseases in males, including genital warts and certain types of cancer, the vaccination programme was extended to include boys aged 12 to 13 in 2019. This move aims to increase herd immunity and provide direct protection to males.

Special Groups

Certain groups outside of the routine age range may also be recommended to receive the HPV vaccine. For instance, men who have sex with men (MSM) can receive the HPV vaccine up to the age of 45 when attending sexual health services or HIV clinics. This is because this group is at higher risk of HPV-related diseases, including anal and throat cancers.

Conclusion

Overall, the HPV vaccine is a critical preventive measure against a range of HPV-related conditions. The NHS's approach to offering the vaccine to adolescents, extending it to males, and targeting special groups ensures broad coverage and protection. For those eligible, getting vaccinated is a proactive step towards safeguarding health and preventing the spread of HPV-related diseases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is recommended to get the HPV vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is recommended for preteens aged 11 to 12 years, but it can be given starting at age 9. It is also recommended for everyone through age 26 years if they were not adequately vaccinated earlier.

Can adults over 26 get the HPV vaccine?

Adults aged 27 through 45 years may decide to get the HPV vaccine based on a discussion with their healthcare provider, considering their risk of new HPV infections and possible benefits from vaccination.

Should both boys and girls receive the HPV vaccine?

Yes, both boys and girls should receive the HPV vaccine to protect against cancers caused by HPV, including cervical cancer in women and other types of cancer that can affect both genders.

Is the HPV vaccine necessary if I've already been sexually active?

Yes, the vaccine is still recommended for those who are sexually active, as it can protect against HPV types you haven't been exposed to yet.

Can people who are immunocompromised get the HPV vaccine?

Yes, people who are immunocompromised, including those with HIV, should receive the HPV vaccine. It is a safe and effective way to prevent HPV-related diseases.

Should someone get the HPV vaccine if they've already tested positive for HPV?

Yes, they may still benefit from the vaccine, as it can protect against other strains of HPV that they haven't contracted.

When should the HPV vaccine series be started?

The vaccine series should ideally be started at age 11 to 12, but it can begin as early as age 9.

How many doses of the HPV vaccine are needed?

For those who start the series before their 15th birthday, two doses are needed. Those who start on or after their 15th birthday, as well as some immunocompromised individuals, will need three doses.

What if I missed a dose of the HPV vaccine?

If you miss a dose, you should speak with your healthcare provider to catch up as soon as possible.

Is it safe to get the HPV vaccine during pregnancy?

The HPV vaccine is not recommended during pregnancy. If you find out you are pregnant after starting the HPV vaccine series, it is advised to wait until after the pregnancy to complete the series.

Are there any contraindications to getting the HPV vaccine?

The main contraindication is a severe allergic reaction to any component of the vaccine or a previous dose. It's important to discuss any allergies with your healthcare provider.

Why is the HPV vaccine important?

The HPV vaccine is important because it protects against the types of HPV that most commonly cause cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers, as well as genital warts.

Can the HPV vaccine treat existing HPV infections or related diseases?

No, the HPV vaccine cannot treat existing infections or diseases. It is preventative and is most effective before exposure to HPV.

How effective is the HPV vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing infection with the HPV types it covers when given before first exposure to the virus.

Where can I get the HPV vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is available at most clinics, family doctors' offices, and public health units.

Is there a cost for the HPV vaccine?

The cost of the HPV vaccine can vary, but it is often covered by insurance for the recommended age groups. Check with your insurance provider or local health department for more information.

Can the HPV vaccine cause side effects?

Yes, like any vaccine, the HPV vaccine can cause side effects. These are usually mild and may include pain at the injection site, fever, or headache.

Is the HPV vaccine safe?

Yes, the HPV vaccine is safe. It has gone through extensive safety testing and monitoring and is approved by health authorities worldwide.

Do people who were vaccinated with the earlier version of the HPV vaccine need the new one?

It is not routinely recommended for those who completed the HPV vaccine series with an earlier version to receive additional doses of the current vaccine, but it can be considered in some cases.

If I had the HPV vaccine, do I still need regular cervical cancer screenings?

Yes, it is still important to follow cervical cancer screening guidelines as the vaccine does not protect against all cancer-causing HPV types.

Useful Links

Useful Links : Who should get the HPV vaccine?
HPV Vaccine Overview

NHS Guide on the HPV vaccine, who should get it, and how it protects against cancers caused by human papillomavirus.
Who Should Have the HPV Vaccine?

Information from the NHS on who should get the HPV vaccine and the recommended age groups.
HPV Vaccine Information

Cancer Research UK details about the HPV vaccine, including eligibility and benefits.
HPV and How It Causes Cancer

NHS page explaining human papillomavirus (HPV) and its connection to certain types of cancer.
Vaccinating Against HPV

Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust's overview of the HPV vaccination and its importance in cervical cancer prevention.
JCVI Advice on HPV Vaccination

Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation's (JCVI) position statement on the HPV vaccination programme.
Understanding the HPV Vaccine

NHS Inform provides detailed information on the HPV vaccine and who should receive it in Scotland.
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