The HPV vaccine is a crucial step in preventing Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection and related cancers. Understanding the purpose, mechanism, and requirements for HPV vaccination is vital for public health.

Proper HPV vaccination procedures and knowledge about its side effects can help increase confidence in this vaccine. Tirta’s friends can learn more about the HPV vaccine, from its definition to its side effects.

What is the HPV Vaccine?

How the HPV vaccine works (Source: Youtube/WHO European Region)

The HPV vaccine is designed to protect the body from Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which is the main cause of cervical cancer and several other types of cancer, such as vulvar, vaginal, penile, and anal cancers.

HPV can also cause genital warts and cancer in the back of the throat, base of the tongue, and tonsils. This vaccine is crucial because HPV infection is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide.

Purpose of the HPV Vaccine

The main purpose of the HPV vaccine is to prevent HPV infections leading to cervical cancer and other diseases.

The WHO suggests using this vaccine in national immunization programs to lower the risk of cervical cancer, particularly for girls aged 9-14.

WHO recommends HPV vaccine be given to children and adults in the following doses:

Children and Adolescents

  • One or two doses with a 6-12 month interval, for children aged 9–14 years
  • One or two doses with a 6-month interval, for adolescents aged 15–20 years

Adults

  • Two doses with a 6-month interval, for women over 21 years old.

With widespread vaccination coverage, it is hoped that the incidence of cervical cancer can decrease significantly.

How the HPV Vaccine Works

The HPV vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to recognize and fight the HPV virus before infection occurs. This vaccine contains harmless virus-like particles that trigger an immune response without causing disease.

Some HPV vaccines, like Gardasil and Cervarix, protect against different types of HPV that commonly cause cancer and genital warts.

Requirements for HPV Vaccine

The following are the requirements for receiving the HPV vaccine:

  • HPV vaccine is recommended for children and adolescents aged 9-14 years but can be given up to age 45.
  • Good general health condition
  • No allergies to vaccine components
  • Not pregnant
  • Have not previously received a complete HPV vaccine series
  • No history of serious reactions to previous HPV vaccine doses. If you’ve experienced a severe reaction to the first dose, subsequent doses may not be recommended.

It’s important to consult with a doctor before receiving the HPV vaccine to ensure suitability and safety of vaccination.

HPV Vaccine Prices at Tirta Medical Centre (TMC)

The prices of HPV or cervical cancer vaccines at Tirta Medical Centre Clinic are very affordable to protect Tirta’s friends and family. Here are the HPV vaccine prices at TMC:

  • Gardasil HPV Vaccine Price, 1 Dose: IDR 1,300,000/Person
  • Gardasil 9 HPV Vaccine Price, 1 Dose: IDR 2,300,000/Person
  • Gardasil 9 HPV Vaccine Price, 3 Doses: IDR 6,800,000/Person

For more information about prices and HPV vaccine reservations, Tirta’s friends can contact TMC here:

Questions & Reservations

HPV Vaccine Procedure

The HPV vaccination procedure involves several important steps:

  • Before HPV vaccination, patients can consult with a doctor to ensure there are no contraindications, such as allergies to vaccine components.
  • After the doctor checks the medical history, they can determine the appropriate HPV vaccine dose and schedule.
  • The vaccine is administered through intramuscular injection, usually in the upper arm.
  • After vaccination, patients need to be monitored to anticipate possible allergic reactions or other side effects.

Side Effects of HPV Vaccine

Side effects from the HPV vaccine are generally mild and temporary. Some possible side effects include:

  • Itching or bruising at the injection site
  • Headache
  • Mild fever
  • Muscle or joint pain

The HPV vaccine is a way to prevent cervical cancer and HPV infection to avoid serious complications that can arise from it. By getting HPV vaccination, Tirta’s friends and family can contribute to reducing the burden of diseases caused by this virus.

References:

  • Kemenkes. Accessed in 2024. HPV Vaccine, Preventing Cervical Cancer and Creating a Healthy Generation: https://ayosehat.kemkes.go.id/vaksin-hpv-mencegah-kanker-leher-rahim-dan-mewujudkan-generasi-sehat
  • WHO. Accessed in 2024. Cervical cancer: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cervical-cancer
  • WebMD. Accessed in 2024. HPV Vaccines and Cervical Cancer: https://www.webmd.com/sexual-conditions/hpv-genital-warts/hpv-vaccines-human-papillomavirus
  • Alodokter. Accessed in 2024. Get to Know What HPV Vaccination Is: https://www.alodokter.com/kenali-apa-itu-vaksin-hpv