What is HPV?
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a DNA virus that infects the epithelial and mucosal tissues of the human body. There are over 200 types of HPV, categorized into low-risk and high-risk types. It is one of the most common infectious diseases in both men and women.
Who is likely to contract HPV?
Regardless of gender, once sexual activity begins, HPV can be transmitted—even with a single partner.
Epidemiological studies in the U.S. estimate that 1 in every 2 monogamous couples will have one partner infected.
Although the government offers free Pap smear tests for women over 30 annually, Pap smears are for early detection and cannot prevent HPV infection. Currently, there is no routine HPV test for men. Therefore, in addition to women, men should also proactively take preventive measures to protect themselves and their partners.
How is HPV transmitted?
Primarily through sexual contact. It spreads via skin, mucous membrane, or bodily fluid contact during intercourse. In some cases, touching objects contaminated with HPV from the external genitalia may also result in infection.
HPV is linked to cervical cancer!
Studies show that persistent high-risk HPV infection significantly increases the risk of cervical cancer.
In Taiwan, four women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each day. Among precancerous cervical lesions, 1 in 4 patients is aged 20–34. Once developed into cervical cancer, it can be fatal. Thus, both partners should take preventive action to avoid unknowingly transmitting the virus to each other.
It affects women!
Although Pap smears are provided free to women over 30, they are only for early detection.
To fully prevent HPV-related diseases, vaccination + safe sex + regular Pap smears are recommended.
HPV Vaccine Comparison
Approved HPV Vaccines in Taiwan
Bivalent HPV Vaccine
Quadrivalent HPV Vaccine
9-valent HPV Vaccine
HPV Types Covered
16、18
16、18
06、11
16、18、06
11、31、33
45、52、58
Eligible Recipients
Female
Female, Male
Protection
Cervical cancer
Mild vulvar precancerous lesions
Mild vaginal precancerous lesions
Cervical cancer
Moderate to severe vulvar precancerous lesions
Moderate to severe vaginal precancerous lesions
Genital warts (condyloma), anal cancer
*Anal cancer is currently approved for prevention under the 9-valent HPV vaccine by the Ministry of Health
Q1. What are the possible side effects after getting the HPV vaccine?
Most side effects are mild and include pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, as well as mild nausea or vomiting.
Systemic side effects such as fever, headache, gastrointestinal discomfort, or fatigue may occur, but they are usually mild to moderate. Severe allergic reactions are rare.
Q2. Can HPV vaccines be given with other vaccines?
Since HPV vaccines are non-live, they can be co-administered with other live or non-live vaccines such as hepatitis A, hepatitis B, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, meningococcal vaccines, etc.
Consult your doctor before doing so. Different injection sites are preferred.
According to Taiwan CDC (as of Sept. 16, 2021), there should be a minimum 14-day interval between COVID-19 vaccines and other vaccines. Please follow the latest CDC guidelines.
Q3. Who should not receive the HPV vaccine?
- Those allergic to any components of the vaccine or with a history of vaccine-related allergic reactions.
- Women currently undergoing treatment for cervical cancer—vaccination is recommended only after treatment.
- Those planning to become pregnant—avoid pregnancy within 6 months of vaccination.
- Pregnant women should not receive the vaccine.
- People with special conditions (e.g., bleeding disorders, immunocompromised status) or on medication should consult a doctor prior to vaccination.
Q4. What’s the schedule for the 9-valent HPV vaccine?
(1) Ages 9–14: 2 doses at month 0 and 6–12
(2) Ages 15–45: 3 doses at months 0, 2, and 6
If the schedule must be adjusted, the second dose must be given at least 1 month after the first, and the third dose at least 3 months after the second.
Q5. What if someone becomes pregnant during the vaccination course?
There is no evidence showing harm to the mother or fetus. If pregnancy occurs during vaccination, the pregnancy can continue. However, the remaining doses should be delayed until after childbirth.
Q6. Can the vaccine be administered if I have a mild cold or fever?
If your ear temperature is below 38°C or forehead temperature is below 37.5°C, vaccination can proceed.
Q7. What diseases are prevented by bivalent, quadrivalent, and 9-valent HPV vaccines?
All three vaccines prevent 70% of cervical cancers.
Quadrivalent and 9-valent vaccines protect against 90% of genital warts (caused by HPV6 & 11).
They also offer protection against other cancers such as vaginal, vulvar, penile, and anal cancers.
Q8. Can different HPV vaccines be mixed during the course?
According to the WHO 2022 position paper, mixing different HPV vaccines is not recommended. All doses should be from the same vaccine type. Inform your doctor of previous HPV vaccination history to help assess compatibility.
