What you need to know about the HPV vaccine (Human Papillomavirus - HPV Vaccine)

Cervical cancer is a common concern among women in our country, and one that many fear. So would you be surprised if I told you that there is a way to protect yourself from this dangerous disease? That is what is called the HPV vaccine. You may have heard of it, as it is also included in the government vaccination program for school-age girls in our country. Today, we will talk about it simply, in a way that you can understand.

What is this HPV vaccine?

Simply put, this is a vaccine that builds our body's immunity against a virus called Human Papillomavirus (HPV) . There are many types of this HPV virus. Among them, some of the most dangerous types cause cervical cancer as well as cancers of the vagina, vulva, and rectum. Some types can also cause genital warts.

When this vaccine is given to a girl or woman, it greatly reduces the risk of developing the types of cancer and genital warts I mentioned. When given to a boy, it reduces their risk of developing genital warts and rectal cancer.

What should I tell the doctor before getting this vaccine?

You should definitely tell your doctor this information before giving this vaccine to you or your child.

• If you have a fever or any infection.
• If you have a bleeding disorder (e.g., hemophilia).
• If you have HIV infection or AIDS.
• If you have a weakness in your immune system.
• If you have low platelet counts.
• If you have previously had an allergy to the HPV vaccine, yeast, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
• If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother.

Knowing these facts will make it easier for the doctor to decide whether or not it is appropriate to vaccinate you.

How is the vaccine given?

This vaccine is given by a medical professional. It is usually injected into the muscle of your upper arm or thigh .

You will be observed for about 15 minutes after the injection. This is because sometimes you may feel dizzy after the injection. So you will be asked to sit or lie down for those 15 minutes.

You need to get three doses of this vaccine.

1. First dose: You talk to the doctor and set a date.

2. Second dose: 2 months after the first dose.

3. Third dose: 4 months after the second dose.

Simply put, all three doses should be completed within 6 months . You will be given a Vaccine Information Statement (VIS) before each vaccination. Always read it carefully.

Do you give this to small children?

Yes. This vaccine can be given to children as young as 9 years old. In our country, it is usually given to girls aged 10-11 years under the school health program. You can ask your pediatrician for more information about this.

What to do if you miss a vaccine?

For best results, it is very important to get all three doses on time. So don't forget to get the vaccine on the days you are given. Imagine that you can't go on the day you are supposed to. If that happens, call your doctor right away and get advice on what to do next. Don't skip it.

Things we need to be careful about after getting vaccinated

HPV is a sexually transmitted disease. This means that it can be spread through any type of sexual contact, not just through sex. The vaccine is most effective if it is given before you become sexually active. Most people who are infected with the virus do not have any symptoms. That's why it's so dangerous.

Are there any side effects to this vaccine?

Like any vaccine, this one can have minor side effects. But there's nothing to worry about. Most things are normal. But there are some things you should be aware of.

Important: If you have any symptoms that are not on this list and that you think are unusual, contact your doctor immediately. If you think you may have overdosed on the vaccine, go to the nearest Emergency Department (ETU) immediately or contact the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital.

HPV vaccine, cervical cancer, Human Papillomavirus, Gardasil, genital warts, women's health, vaccination, preventive health