What to Know About the HPV Vaccine
HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) is a group of sexually transmitted viruses that affect many individuals worldwide. Some types of HPV, especially those that are effective on genital cancers, pose serious risks to sexual health. Therefore, HPV vaccination is an extremely important step to protect people's health. In this article, we will provide detailed information about the importance of the HPV vaccine, how it works, and who it should be applied to.
What is HPV?
HPV is a group of more than 200 different types of viruses. Some of these viruses cause genital warts, while others can lead to serious diseases such as cervical cancer. In particular, HPV types 16 and 18 are responsible for approximately 70% of cervical cancers. This increases the importance of the HPV vaccine.
How is HPV Transmitted?
HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. It is transmitted through:
- Sexual contact: Direct contact with the genital area allows the virus to be transmitted.
- Skin contact: There is a risk of HPV transmission, especially through genital area contact.
- During birth: In rare cases, transmission from mother to baby is possible.
There is no need for full sexual intercourse to be transmitted to HPV; even genital area contact is sufficient.
What is HPV Vaccine?
The HPV vaccine was developed to protect against certain high-risk types of HPV. There are three main types of vaccines:
- Gardasil 4: Provides protection against HPV types 6, 11, 16 and 18.
- Gardasil 9: In addition to the above four types, it also protects against types 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58.
- Cervarix: Provides protection against HPV 16 and 18.
Benefits of HPV Vaccine
The HPV vaccine offers many benefits for individuals, including:
- Reducing the risk of cervical cancer: Vaccination largely prevents the development of this serious disease.
- Protection against genital warts: Thanks to the vaccine, the risk of genital warts is also significantly reduced.
- Preventing other HPV-related cancers: The vaccine also provides protection against different types of cancer.
Can Men Get the HPV Vaccine?
The HPV vaccine is recommended for both women and men. Vaccination is important for men to prevent genital warts, as well as anal and, in rare cases, penile and oral-throat cancers. Therefore, it is recommended that men also get vaccinated.
At What Age Should HPV Vaccine Be Given?
The HPV vaccine varies for different age groups:
- Girls and Boys Ages 9–14: This is the period when the vaccine is most effective. Administering it before sexual intercourse allows the immune system to respond more strongly. 2 doses are sufficient for this age group (0 and 6 months).
- Teens and Young Adults Ages 15–26: Even if sexual contact has started, they may not have encountered HPV yet. 3 doses are recommended for this age group (0, 1-2 and 6 months). It can be applied to both girls and boys.
- Adults Ages 27–45: Vaccination can be administered to people in this age group with a doctor's recommendation based on individual risk assessment. It can provide protection against different types of HPV, even if they have been infected with it before.
Who Will Get Free HPV Vaccine?
The Ministry of Health aims to offer the HPV vaccine free of charge, especially to children aged 2025 and over, by the end of 13. In this context, the initiation of the vaccination program is considered a major step in terms of public health.
When Will the HPV Vaccine Be Free?
The Minister of Health announced that the HPV vaccine will be free of charge, especially for children aged 2025, by the end of 13. This vaccine will be offered to eliminate speculation about HPV and to protect public health. In the coming years, HPV screening programs and vaccination practices will also accelerate.
In conclusion, HPV vaccination is an extremely important step to protect the health of individuals and reduce risks in terms of sexual health. This vaccine, recommended for both women and men, is applied to various age groups and contributes to public health. The fact that the vaccine is free offers a great opportunity, especially for young individuals.
