• 6 days ago

HPV Vaccine in Children: Does Early Vaccination Offer Protection?

What Is HPV and Why Is It Important?

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a group of more than 200 related viruses. Some types are:

  • Sexually transmitted,
  • Cause genital warts,
  • Linked to cervical, anal, penile, vaginal, and throat cancers.

HPV types 16 and 18 are responsible for about 70% of cervical cancers worldwide.

What Is the HPV Vaccine and How Does It Work?

The HPV vaccine helps the body develop immunity against the most dangerous HPV types. It is not a live vaccine, so it cannot cause infection.

Common HPV vaccines include:

  • 2-valent (Cervarix): Covers types 16 & 18
  • 4-valent (Gardasil): Covers types 6, 11, 16 & 18
  • 9-valent (Gardasil 9): Offers the broadest protection, covering 9 types

When Should the HPV Vaccine Be Given?

According to WHO, CDC, and other international guidelines:

Age Range

Doses Required

Notes

9–14 years

2 doses (0 and 6–12 months)

Highest immune response in this group

15 years and older

3 doses (0, 1–2, and 6 months)

Weaker immune response requires extra dose

The most effective time to vaccinate is before any sexual activity begins.

Should Both Girls and Boys Be Vaccinated?

Yes. HPV affects both females and males. In boys, it can cause:

  • Penile, anal, and oropharyngeal (throat) cancers
  • Genital warts
  • Contributing to herd immunity

Global health authorities now recommend HPV vaccination equally for girls and boys.

Does Early Vaccination Provide Better Protection?

Absolutely. Research shows that:

  • Vaccination between ages 9–14 provides over 90% protection
  • Immune response is stronger and more durable at this age
  • Protection starts before any exposure to the virus occurs

Are There Any Side Effects?

Most side effects are mild and short-lived:

  • Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
  • Mild fever, headache
  • Rarely, fainting (more common in teens) — 15 minutes of rest is advised after vaccination

The vaccine is safe, does not cause infertility, and does not contain live virus.

Is the HPV Vaccine Free?

  • In many countries, it is included in the national immunization program
  • In Türkiye, it is not yet free of charge in all areas, but
  • Some municipalities or health initiatives offer it at no cost to eligible children