Human Papilloma Virus Vaccine, How does HPV Vaccine Work?

Context: The government is set to roll out a human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign for girls in the 9-14 years age group to reduce the incidence of cervical cancer (the second most common cancer in women in India.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is a preventive vaccine designed to protect against certain types of human papillomavirus, which is a sexually transmitted infection. The primary purpose of the HPV vaccine is to prevent infection with specific types of HPV that are known to cause various cancers, including cervical cancer, anal cancer, and throat cancer. It also protects against genital warts.

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How Does the HPV Vaccine Work?

• The HPV vaccine works by stimulating the body’s immune system to produce antibodies against the Human Papillomavirus.
• These antibodies help protect against the strains of HPV that are most commonly associated with cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers.
• The vaccine targets high-risk strains like HPV 16, 18 (the most common strains that are known to cause cancer), 31, and 45, the most common types of HPV that can lead to disease.

Types of HPV Vaccine

There are currently three main types of HPV vaccines available worldwide:

Can a Single dose of the Vaccine protect against HPV?

While the HPV vaccine is typically administered in a multi-dose schedule, there is a consideration that even a single dose might offer some level of protection against the virus. However, for the best possible protection, the full course of vaccination as recommended by health authorities should be followed.

Who should get the HPV Vaccine?

• The HPV vaccine is recommended for young girls and boys, ideally before they become sexually active, to ensure they are protected before potential exposure to the virus.
• In India, the campaign focuses on girls between the ages of 9 and 14 and aims to integrate the vaccine into the routine immunisation program for 9-year-old girls.
• It is also recommended for men who have sex with men (MSM) as they are at a higher risk of HPV-related cancers.

HPV Vaccine in India

The HPV vaccine landscape in India is evolving rapidly, offering promising developments for preventing cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases. Cervavac, the indigenous vaccine, is set to be rolled out across several states starting in early 2024, potentially making HPV vaccination more accessible and affordable. However, ensuring consistent availability and equitable access in different regions remains a challenge.

Types of HPV Vaccines Available

• Cervarix (bivalent): Protects against HPV 16 and 18, responsible for approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases globally.
• Gardasil (quadrivalent): Covers HPV 16, 18, 31, and 33, offering broader protection and some immunity against genital warts.
• Cervavac (quadrivalent): India’s first indigenous HPV vaccine, also targeting the same four high-risk types as Gardasil and recently approved for government roll-out.
• Gardasil 9 (nonavalent): Provides the most extensive protection against nine high-risk HPV types and two low-risk types, though not yet readily available in India.

Vaccination Recommendations

• Currently, the Indian Academy of Pediatrics and Indian Oncology Society recommend HPV vaccination for girls aged 9-14 years.
• Catch-up programs are being implemented for females up to 26 years old who haven’t been vaccinated earlier.
• Vaccination for boys is not yet part of the national program, but some experts advocate for its inclusion due to potential benefits in preventing HPV-related cancers and genital warts.

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