hello@happyjabs.com

0141 459 0020

HPV Vaccination

*Please make a reservation for the Gardasil 9 vaccine by giving us a call.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) refers to a group of viruses including over 100 types. Approximately 40 of these affect the genital tract and are associated with cancer. Research suggests that about four out of five individuals may encounter some form of HPV during their lifetime.

Cervical cancer ranked as the fourth most prevalent cancer worldwide, can take one to ten years to develop from pre-cancerous cells after an HPV infection.

 

Travel Vaccinations

Per Dose

Course

HPV (please make reservations)

£189 per dose

3 Doses

Prevention

HPV can be transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person, often without their awareness. The virus enters the body through minor openings in the skin.

There is no direct cure for HPV itself; however, the effects, such as genital warts or abnormal cell changes, can be managed, and conditions like cervical cancer are treatable. The HPV vaccine protects against the strains of HPV that cause most warts and cervical cancer, and it also offers protection against certain other cancers, such as those affecting the mouth, throat, and genital areas. However, it may not provide immunity against all types of HPV.

While condoms provide some protection against HPV, they do not cover all skin areas completely. Nonetheless, they offer protection against various other sexually transmitted infections and help prevent unplanned pregnancies. Vaccination can also prevent women from transmitting HPV to their new-borns. 

Countries at Risk

HPVs are widespread globally and can be easily transmitted through close genital skin contact, often without showing specific symptoms. This makes the virus highly contagious and difficult to detect early. Approximately 4 out of 5 people are likely to contract some form of HPV at some point in their lives. 

Travel Precautions

You can’t completely shield yourself from HPV infection; however, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk. 

  • The HPV vaccine is effective in protecting against 9 different types of HPV (types 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58), which are responsible for over 70% of cervical cancers, many penile and anal cancers, and about 90% of genital warts. The vaccine does not cause cancer or any other HPV-related illnesses.

  • Using condoms can reduce the risk of HPV transmission. However, since HPV can be present on skin areas not covered by condoms, they may not offer full protection against the virus. 

  • Regular cervical screenings can detect early changes in cervical cells (abnormal cells), helping to prevent further development.

Signs and Symptoms

High-risk HPV often doesn’t show any visible symptoms, which can be concerning. However, cervical screening (commonly referred to as a smear test) can identify high-risk HPV and detect any early signs of changes before they progress to cancer.

Low-risk HPV can cause genital warts. While these types are not linked to cancer risks, genital warts can be uncomfortable and may require medical attention.