Human Papillomavirus (HPV2 and HPV9) Vaccination

What is the human papillomavirus (HPV2 and HPV9) vaccine?

The human papillomavirus (HPV2 and HPV9) vaccine is a crucial immunisation designed to protect against the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection.

HPV is associated with several cancers, including cervical, vaginal, and vulvar in women, and anal cancer, and genital warts in both men and women.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is primarily spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact, often during sexual activity.

Although less frequent, the virus can also pass from an infected mother to her baby during delivery. HPV can be transmitted even when an infected person has no signs or symptoms.

How the human papillomavirus (HPV2 and HPV9) vaccine works

The HPV2 and HPV9 vaccines stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies against the human papillomavirus. These antibodies provide protection by preventing HPV from infecting cells.

Types of human papillomavirus vaccines

There are 3 primary types of HPV vaccines available in Singapore:

Bivalent (HPV2), which protects against 2 types of HPV strains (16 and 18)
Quadrivalent (HPV 4), which protects against 4 types of HPV strains (6, 11, 16, and 18)
Nonavalent (HPV9), which protects against 9 types of HPV strains (6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58)

We offer HPV2 and HPV9 vaccines in Parkway Shenton clinics.

Differences between human papillomavirus HPV2 and HPV9 vaccines

HPV2 targets the 2 HPV types (16 and 18) most commonly associated with cervical cancer, while HPV9 provides broader protection against additional strains that also contribute to cancer and genital warts.

In Singapore, the HPV2 vaccine is registered for use in women, while the HPV9 vaccine is registered for use in both men and women.

Why do you need the human papillomavirus (HPV2 and HPV9) vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is a critical preventive measure against HPV-related cancers and conditions. Since HPV is widespread and often asymptomatic, vaccination serves as a proactive approach to reduce the risk of developing these serious health issues.

In Singapore, the HPV vaccine is recommended under the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) and National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) for females to enhance community immunity and reduce the spread of the disease.

When do you need the human papillomavirus (HPV2 and HPV9) vaccine?

Females aged 9 – 26 should receive the HPV vaccine. Those below 15 will receive 2 doses, and those above 15 will receive 3 doses at intervals of 0, 1 – 2, and 6 months.

Catch-up vaccination is advised up to age 26 for those who missed the initial recommendation, and certain individuals up to age 45 may benefit based on their doctor's advice.

Why is the HPV vaccine not generally recommended for people above the age of 26?

Most people have been exposed to HPV by the age of 26, and the vaccine is most effective when administered before exposure to the virus. Therefore, the vaccine offers limited benefit in this age group as it does not treat existing infections or their complications.

Additionally, clinical trials and studies have primarily focused on the vaccine's efficacy and safety in younger populations.

Who should not receive the human papillomavirus (HPV2 and HPV9) vaccine?

Individuals with severe allergies to any component of the HPV vaccine or those who have had an allergic reaction to a previous dose should not receive the vaccine.

Pregnant women should also postpone vaccination until after pregnancy.

How do you prepare for the human papillomavirus (HPV2 and HPV9) vaccine?

Before receiving the HPV vaccine, discuss your medical history with your doctor. Some possible areas of discussion include:

Allergies. Any history of severe allergic reactions, especially to a previous dose of the HPV vaccine or any of its components
Medical conditions. Existing health conditions, especially those that affect the immune system, such as HIV/AIDS or cancer
Medications. Current medications, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, which might interact with the vaccine
Pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, because the vaccine's safety in these conditions may require further discussion with your doctor
Bleeding disorders. Conditions that affect blood clotting or if you are taking blood-thinning medications
Recent vaccine history. Inform your doctor of any vaccines received recently to avoid potential interactions
If you are currently unwell and are having a fever

Wear a short-sleeved shirt or a shirt with sleeves that can easily roll up to facilitate the injection in the upper arm.

What can you expect when getting the human papillomavirus (HPV2 and HPV9) vaccine?

The vaccine is given as an injection in the upper arm. The vaccination schedule typically involves 2 or 3 doses, depending on the age at initial vaccination.

What are the common side effects of the human papillomavirus (HPV2 and HPV9) vaccine?

Common side effects may include:

Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site
Muscle aches
Mild fever, headache, and fatigue

These symptoms are usually mild and resolve on their own.

What are the serious side effects that require medical attention?

While serious side effects are rare, they can include:

Difficulty breathing
Swollen eyes, face, lips, and/or tongue
Hives
Weakness

If any of these symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately.

Where can I get vaccinated?

Find a Parkway Shenton clinic near you and call us to confirm if your preferred vaccine is available.

Find a clinic near me

Frequently asked questions

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Yes, the HPV vaccine is recommended for men to protect against HPV-related diseases, including genital warts and certain types of cancer. This can also help reduce the spread of the virus to women.

While the HPV vaccine is most effective when given at a younger age, individuals older than 26 may still receive the vaccine after consulting with their healthcare provider, especially if they have not been exposed to HPV.

Individuals with a history of genital warts or HPV-related cancers should discuss HPV vaccination with their doctor. The vaccine may still offer protection against strains of HPV to which they have not been exposed.

The HPV vaccine is a preventive measure and does not require lifestyle changes. However, it does not substitute for routine cancer screenings or safe sexual practices.

While the HPV vaccine is highly effective, it does not provide 100% protection against all HPV types. It is still possible to be infected with a strain not covered by the vaccine.

Yes, the HPV vaccine can be given at the same time as other vaccines. It is commonly administered alongside other routine vaccines for adolescents.

Yes, the HPV vaccine can be administered during menstruation. The menstrual cycle does not affect the efficacy or safety of the vaccine.

If a dose is missed, the HPV vaccine series does not need to be restarted. The individual should schedule the missed dose as soon as possible.

Current studies show that the HPV vaccine provides long-lasting protection. However, research is ongoing to determine the exact duration of vaccine effectiveness.

Individuals with weakened immune systems may receive the HPV vaccine but should consult their doctor. The vaccine may be less effective in this population, and additional doses may be recommended.

Vaccination does not eliminate the need for routine cancer screenings. Women should continue to follow recommended guidelines for cervical cancer screening, which typically include Pap smear tests and HPV tests at intervals recommended by healthcare providers.