The HPV vaccine protects against HPV infection. They target the high-risk strains of HPV that are more likely to cause cervical cancer. These vaccines stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies against the high-risk HPV types, thus preventing future infection and subsequent cancer development.

There are three main types of cervical cancer vaccines: bivalent, quadrivalent, and nonavalent. The bivalent vaccine targets HPV-16 and HPV-18, while the quadrivalent vaccine also protects HPV-6 and HPV-11—strains 6 and 11 cause most genital warts. Hence, the quadrivalent vaccine prevents genital warts in those not already infected with the virus. The nonavalent vaccine protects against 9 strains of HPV (6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 52, 58). The added strains (31, 33, 35, 52, 58) cause an additional 20% of cervical cancers. Hence, the nonavalent vaccine provides broader protection against more HPV types, including genital warts and also a wide range of cancers.

• Health authorities recommend that individuals receive the HPV vaccination before the onset of sexual activity and potential exposure to HPV infection. Hence, they recommend it for children and adolescents above 9 years of age.
• Before 15 years, they need only 2 shots. The healthcare provider administers the second dose 6 to 12 months after the first dose.
• After 15 years of age, individuals need three doses. The healthcare provider gives the second dose 1-2 months after the first dose, and they provide the third dose 6 months after the first.

HPV infection can cause cancers in both men and women. In males, it can cause anal, penile, and throat cancer. Hence, vaccination in males helps prevent HPV-related cancers. If that strain does not infect the patient, it can prevent genital warts.

The vaccine is most effective in the younger population. In older age groups, there are chances of acquiring the HPV; hence, the protection may not be high. Still, older age groups (26-45 years) can get vaccinated as it will protect against other strains that are not already acquired. Hence, the upper age limit has been increased from 26 years to 45 years.

HPV vaccines generally protect for around 10 years after getting vaccinated.

HPV vaccine is a generally safe vaccine. As with any vaccine, there might be mild side effects such as soreness at the injection site, fever, mild joint pains, and nausea.