Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination for Children

What is HPV?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common viral infection linked to genital warts and several types of cancers, such as cervical, vaginal, vulva, and anal cancer. It is typically spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity.

It’s estimated that almost all sexually active individuals will get an HPV infection at some point in their lives.

Since most HPV infections show no symptoms, many people don’t realise they’re infected or that they’ve passed on the virus to others. That’s why early protection through vaccination is important.

How the HPV vaccine works

The vaccine trains the immune system to recognise and fight HPV before it can cause an infection. Administering the vaccine early, before any exposure to the virus, helps prevent infection and long-term complications like cancer.

Types of HPV vaccines available for children

In Singapore, two HPV vaccines are approved for children:

• Bivalent vaccine (HPV2 Cervarix) – Protects against two high-risk HPV types (16 and 18), which cause the majority of cervical cancer cases.
• Nonavalent vaccine (HPV9 Gardasil 9) – Provides broader protection against nine HPV types (6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58), including those responsible for genital warts and other HPV-related cancers.

Both Cervarix and Gardasil 9 vaccines are available at Parkway Shenton clinics.

HPV2 vs HPV9: What's the difference?

HPV2 targets the two most common cancer-causing strains, and is used in girls under the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS).

HPV9 offers broader protection, covering more high-risk strains associated with other cancers and genital warts. It is approved for use in both boys and girls.

Why do children need the HPV vaccine?

The vaccine works best when given before any exposure to HPV. Vaccinating children between ages 9 – 14, before sexual activity begins, ensures a strong immune response and better protection with fewer doses.

Early vaccination helps:

• Prevent future HPV-related cancers
• Reduce the risk of genital warts
• Limit the spread of HPV in the community

In Singapore, the HPV2 vaccine (Cervarix) is part of the NCIS and is given to Singaporean girls aged 9 – 14 through their school-based vaccination programme.

While not covered under NCIS, boys may receive the HPV9 vaccine (Gardasil 9) to protect themselves and their future partners. Speak to your doctor to find out which HPV vaccine is suitable for your child.

When should children get the HPV vaccine?

HPV vaccination is nationally recommended for girls aged 9 – 14 and optional for boys. For children who miss this window, catch-up vaccination is advised up to age 45.

Dosage schedule:

• Ages 9 – 14: 2 doses, typically given 6 – 12 months apart
• Ages 15 and above: 3 doses at 0, 1 – 2, and 6 months

Children and adolescents who are immunocompromised should receive 3 doses, regardless of age.

How much does the HPV vaccine cost?

The HPV2 vaccine (Cervarix) is fully subsidised for Singaporean girls aged 9 – 14 under the NCIS.

The HPV9 vaccine (Gardasil 9), which offers broader protection, is not subsidised under the NCIS. It is readily available at private clinics for both boys and girls.

Please refer to our vaccination pricing table for out-of-pocket costs at our clinics.

Who should not receive the HPV vaccine?

Your child should not receive the vaccine if they:

• Have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or any ingredient in the vaccine.
• Are currently unwell with fever.

How to prepare your child for HPV vaccination

Ensure your child is dressed in a top with sleeves that can be easily rolled up.

Explain in a calm and reassuring way that the HPV vaccine is a quick injection in the upper arm, and the number of doses depends on their age at the time of the first dose.

Before the appointment, let the doctor know if your child has:

• Any known allergies
• Existing medical conditions, especially those affecting the immune system
• Any medications they’re taking
• Received other vaccines recently
• Symptoms of illness or fever

Common side effects of the HPV vaccine

Most side effects are mild and temporary. These may include:

• Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site
• Mild fever or tiredness
• Headache or muscle aches

These usually resolve within a day or two.

Serious side effects (rare)

Although rare, serious allergic reactions can occur. Seek medical help immediately if your child experiences:

• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or eyes
• Hives or rashes
• Sudden dizziness or fainting