Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common virus that can infect both men and women. While many types of HPV are harmless and clear up on their own, some strains can lead to serious health problems. The HPV vaccine is a powerful way to protect yourself or your child from these risks, especially from cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers.
What is HPV?
HPV stands for human papillomavirus. It is mainly spread through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. Most people will get HPV at some point in their lives, often without even knowing it. In most cases, it goes away on its own. However, certain types of HPV can lead to:
- Cervical cancer
- Other cancers, such as cancer of the anus, penis, vagina, vulva and throat
- Genital warts
The virus is so common that it can affect nearly everyone, but thankfully, the HPV vaccine offers a high level of protection.
How Does the HPV Vaccine Work?
The HPV vaccine helps your immune system recognise and fight off the virus before it can cause harm. It is usually given as an injection in the upper arm. The vaccine does not contain live virus, so it cannot cause HPV infection.
There are several types of HPV, but the vaccine targets the ones most likely to cause cancer and genital warts. By receiving the vaccine, you are significantly lowering your risk of developing HPV-related health problems in the future.
HPV Vaccine Benefits
The HPV vaccine benefits are wide-ranging and long-lasting. Here are a few key points:
- Prevents Cervical Cancer: The vaccine is known to prevent around 90% of cervical cancer cases, which is the most common HPV-related cancer in women.
- Protects Against Other Cancers: It also protects against other cancers caused by HPV, such as those of the throat, anus, and genitals.
- Reduces Genital Warts: Some types of HPV can cause genital warts. The vaccine protects against these strains too.
- Early Protection: Getting vaccinated before becoming sexually active provides the best protection because it stops the virus before any exposure happens.
Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?
In the UK, the HPV vaccine NHS programme offers the vaccine to both boys and girls aged 12 to 13. This is because the vaccine works best when given before exposure to the virus. However, people who missed their vaccine as teenagers can still get it up to the age of 25 on the NHS in some cases.
Adults who are sexually active but have not yet been vaccinated may also benefit from the vaccine. It’s best to speak with a healthcare professional about your individual case.
How Effective is the HPV Vaccine?
HPV vaccine effectiveness is very high. Studies have shown a significant drop in cervical cancer cases and genital warts in countries with widespread vaccination. It has been tested extensively and is considered safe and effective for use.
Are There Any Side Effects?
The HPV vaccine is very safe. Like any vaccine, it can cause mild side effects such as:
- Soreness or swelling in the arm where the injection was given
- Mild fever
- Headache or tiredness
Serious side effects are very rare. The benefits of protection far outweigh the small chance of side effects.
Protect Your Future Today – Book Your HPV Vaccine Now!
Don’t wait to take this important step in protecting your or your child’s health. At Touchwood Pharmacy, we offer expert HPV vaccination services in a friendly, professional setting.
Whether you are a parent looking to protect your teenager or an adult seeking peace of mind, we’re here to help. Book your appointment to learn more. Prevention is always better than cure. Let us help you stay one step ahead of HPV.
