HPV is a group of more than 100 virus types. Most infections cause no symptoms and disappear on their own. But some types, especially HPV 16 and 18, can lead to cancer. HPV vaccines protect against these types, helping to prevent serious health problems. Vaccination against HPV is recommended for both girls and boys, usually around age 9 to 14, before they become sexually active.

Is vaccination effective for adults?

Research has shown that HPV vaccines can also be effective in adults, even if there has been previous exposure to HPV. However, the vaccines do not protect against types a person has already been infected with, but can help prevent further infections. Adults up to age 45 can still get significant benefits from vaccination.

The different types of vaccines against human papillomavirus (HPV)

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, usually through sexual contact. HPV can cause several diseases, including genital warts and certain cancers, such as cervical cancer. Fortunately, there are vaccines that protect against the most dangerous types of this virus. In this blog, we will discuss the different types of HPV vaccines in a simple and understandable way.

The three types of HPV vaccines

There are three HPV vaccines available worldwide. Each vaccine protects against different types of the virus.

Cervarix

Protection: Cervarix protects against HPV types 16 and 18, which are responsible for about 70% of cervical cancer cases.

For whom: This vaccine is primarily used for women to protect against cervical cancer.

Side effects: The most common side effects are mild pain at the injection site, mild fever and fatigue.

Gardasil

Protection: Gardasil provides protection against HPV types 6, 11, 16 and 18. Types 6 and 11 cause 90% of genital warts, while 16 and 18 are carcinogenic.

For whom: Both men and women can get Gardasil. For men, the vaccine protects mainly against genital warts and anus cancer.

Side effects: As with Cervarix, side effects are usually mild, such as pain at the injection site, headache and fever.

Gardasil 9

Protection: Gardasil 9 offers the broadest protection, protecting against nine different types of HPV, including the four types covered by Gardasil (6, 11, 16 and 18), plus five additional cancer-causing types (31, 33, 45, 52 and 58). As a result, Gardasil 9 provides protection against more than 90% of HPV-related cancers.

For whom: This vaccine is available for both boys and girls and provides the most comprehensive protection against both genital warts and various cancers.

Side effects: Side effects are similar to the other vaccines and are usually limited to mild symptoms such as pain at the injection site, fatigue and mild fever.

Vaccine safety

All three vaccines have been extensively tested and are used safely worldwide. They provide long-term protection and most people experience only mild side effects. Vaccination against HPV is an important way to protect yourself and others from serious diseases such as cervical cancer, genital warts and other cancers.

Conclusion

HPV vaccines are a safe and effective way to protect yourself from HPV-related diseases, including several forms of cancer. Whether you choose Cervarix, Gardasil or Gardasil 9, each vaccine provides important protection against the most dangerous types of HPV.

Sources:

RIVM, "HPV vaccination," accessed October 18, 2024, https://www.rivm.nl/hpv
World Health Organization (WHO), "HPV Vaccines: WHO Position Paper," 2017