8 Facts About the HPV Vaccine That You Should Know to Prevent Cancer

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – HPV is a genital wart virus that causes cancer in the genital organs such as cancer of the cervix, vulva, vagina, penis and anus. This virus is very dangerous, because it can be transmitted through direct contact such as intercourse and indirectly such as using a toilet seat. The HPV vaccine is planned to be given thoroughly in Indonesia from 2023 to 2024.

HPV vaccine not free for adults, but girls aged 11-12 years can already receive the program HPV vaccination for free in some provinces. Currently, the cost of the HPV vaccine has a price range starting from IDR 750 thousand to IDR 1.3 million for one injection.

The main requirement for the HPV vaccine for adults is to be married, or passive or sexually active. Meanwhile, the HPV vaccine is administered by injection into the muscle of the upper arm and upper thigh. It’s important to know 8 facts about the HPV vaccine that you shouldn’t ignore.

1. The HPV virus can attack everyone

The HPV virus does not only attack women, because in fact the HPV virus can attack everyone, both men and women. Because this virus can be spread through sexual activity or the use of public toilets that are not kept clean. The main sign of being exposed to the HPV virus is the appearance of warts in the genital area.

2. Patients with HPV infection are often asymptomatic

People with HPV infection often don’t feel any symptoms, because the initial sign is just a small, small lump that is overlooked. However, if not treated, the lump will multiply and spread throughout the genital area.

3. The HPV virus is not just one type

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HPV has 100 different types of viruses, one of which is a strain that has the highest risk of causing cancer. In addition, HPV types 16 and 18 are said to cause cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies that can fight the HPV virus. After vaccination, the body recognizes the parts of the HPV virus contained in the vaccine and produces antibodies against them.

When a person is infected with HPV, the virus can cause changes in cervical cells that put them at risk for cervical cancer. By stimulating the body to produce antibodies, the HPV vaccine helps protect the body from HPV infection and reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer. Although not all HPV trigger cancer, you should remain vigilant, especially for people who feel warts appear in their genital area, take immediate action and contact a doctor.

4. HPV Infection Still Has No Cure

HPV infection still doesn’t have a cure, even though it has followed a series of medical measures. This disease, which is known to be incurable, is usually only treated by reducing pain. Can’t get rid of the whole thing. For that, ensure the prevention of transmission of HPV by vaccines.

5. HPV Vaccine Protects Female Fertility

Women who have a history of symptoms of venereal disease have a low fertility rate. However, if a woman with symptoms of venereal disease takes the HPV vaccination, then female fertility can be well protected.

6. The HPV test for males is still not available

The HPV test for men is still not available, because there is no HPV test to detect the human papillomavirus in the penis area. Some doctors recommend carrying out an HPV test via a pap smear for men who have sexual intercourse through the anus.

7. The HPV vaccine isn’t just for kids

The HPV vaccine is not only given to children aged 11-12 years, but the CDC recommends that the HPV vaccine be given to people aged 27-45 years. In addition, for adults who have immune problems, immediately do the HPV vaccine as soon as possible.

8. Side Effects of the HPV Vaccine

The HPV vaccine has side effects such as pain, redness, swelling at the injection site, headache, fever, weakness, and muscle aches. Although it rarely occurs, side effects can be experienced for someone who has low immunity.

So, those are 8 facts about the HPV vaccine that you should know to prevent HPV infection and cervical cancer.

Editor’s Choice: Awareness of Women Doing Early Detection of Cervical Cancer Needs to be Continuously Improved

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NUR QOMARIYIAH | MINISTRY OF HEALTH