Who should get the HPV vaccine?
The vaccine is best taken early to protect against cervical cancer. The recommended age groups are:
- Girls and boys aged 9 to 14 years: Two doses, 6 to 12 months apart.
- Girls/women and boys/men aged 15 to 25 years: Three doses (0, 2, 6 months).
- Adults aged 27 to 45 years: After consultation with a doctor.
While the ideal vaccination age is 11 to 12 years, catch-up vaccination is recommended for all females through age 26 who are not fully vaccinated.
Common myths vs facts about HPV vaccine
# Myth: Pap smears are also effective, hence vaccination not required.
Fact: The only screening available is for cervical cancer, not other cancers. Five other cancers (affecting both men and women) are caused by HPV. Screening is a secondary prevention method to detect precancerous lesions or cancer early. HPV vaccination is effective in the primary prevention of the disease.
# Myth: HPV vaccines are new and there are no safety and efficacy data on long-term side-effects.
Fact: The possible side-effects are well documented and vaccine safety has been confirmed by WHO and many other authorities.
# Myth: HPV vaccination can cause ovarian failure.
Fact: No connection between HPV vaccination and ovarian failure has been established.
# Myth: Vaccines cause autoimmune diseases, neurological issues and death.
Fact: The incidence of autoimmune or neurological conditions and death is the same in HPV-vaccinated and unvaccinated populations.
# Myth: Children are not sexually active and hence, there’s no need to vaccinate them early.
Fact: The earlier you vaccinate, the better the immune response and strength of prevention. Fewer doses are needed when children are vaccinated under the age of 15 years.
