Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Latest News

The Union Health Ministry is set to launch a nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme targeting girls aged 14 years.

About Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

• HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI), and there are more than 100 types of HPV. Most do not cause health problems.
• However, some types of HPV infection cause skin growths called warts, and some types of HPV infection can cause cancer.
• More than 95% of cervical cancer is caused by the HPV virus.
• Transmission:
  • The virus that causes HPV infection is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. 
  • Most people get a genital HPV infection through direct sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
• About 80% of people – both men and women – will get an HPV infection at some point in their lives. 
• Most people with HPV don’t know they’re infected and never develop symptoms. 
• The body most often clears the virus before it causes any health problems. 
• But for some, the infection persists and can lead to precancerous changes.
• Symptoms may include warts on the genitals or anus or cancerous growths in the mouth or throat. 
• Treatment: 
  • There’s no cure for HPV. 
  • HPV vaccination is the most effective way to prevent HPV-related cancers.

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HPV Vaccination

• The HPV vaccine is a series of shots that can protect you from an HPV infection. 
• It prevents HPV infections that can progress to cancer or genital warts.
• The HPV vaccination is more efficacious if given between the age group of 9-26 years.
• Once a person gets HPV, the vaccine may not be as effective.
• The HPV vaccine isn’t given during pregnancy.

Source: TH