Vaccination against papilloma virus. Vaccination against human papillomavirus: features and rules of vaccination. Vaccine effectiveness in different age groups

• First vaccination for girls
• Having an effect
• Contraindications and possible complications
• Pregnancy and vaccination
• Side effects
• Who is recommended to undergo the procedure?
• What is the cost of the procedure and where can it be done?

A person needs a vaccine against papillomavirus. This is especially true for the female population. A woman's immunity is somewhat weaker and is susceptible to the development of the virus. In addition, the virus can cause serious diseases such as cervical cancer and other diseases associated with papillomavirus. Therefore, it is especially important for women to receive vaccinations that can produce long-term immunity against the human papillomavirus.

First vaccination for girls

In women, HPV can cause the development of cervical cancer. Therefore, girls of puberty, at 11-12 years old, should undergo routine HPV vaccination. This is justified by the fact that at the age of 15-16 girls have their first sexual contact. You can get vaccinated at any specialized clinic. Human papillomavirus is most often transmitted through sexual contact. Therefore, the first vaccination in women should occur at the age before their first sexual intercourse. The vaccine against papillomavirus is capable of absolutely guaranteeing the prevention of the development of HPV and the appearance of genital infections. Tour vaccination in women should occur between the ages of 13 and 26 years, and includes three stages:

• First vaccination;
• Two months later, the second vaccine;
• Six months later, the third vaccine.

It should be remembered that if the human papillomavirus is already present in a woman’s body at the time of vaccination, preventive measures in the form of vaccination cannot prevent all diseases caused by its presence, since the vaccine is directed against four main strains of the disease and does not prevent complications caused by others strains of the virus. Therefore, even vaccinated women should undergo regular examinations by doctors: oncologist, immunologist and gynecologist.

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Having an effect

The human papillomavirus includes more than a hundred types of infectious diseases and viruses, including papillomaviruses of high oncogenic risk. The vaccine contains an artificial papillomavirus, thanks to which the body develops immunity against several main strains of the virus. Of these, two strains overwhelmingly cause the development of genital warts in men and women, the other two cause 70% of the development of cervical cancer.

The vaccine against papillomavirus can not only reliably prevent the development of infection in the body, but also effectively prevent serious diseases that are caused by oncogenic HPV. Vaccination against papillomavirus creates long-term immunity in the body. Protection against the virus is measured over decades, akin to vaccination against hepatitis B.

It must be remembered that if the virus already exists in the body, the vaccine will not only not give results, but may also be contraindicated in some cases. Since the papilloma virus is transmitted primarily through sexual contact, vaccination is recommended before the onset of sexual activity. If a woman has not been vaccinated, but is already sexually active, she must take a test before vaccination. After this, it will be decided whether to get vaccinated.

If the virus is absent in the body, vaccination is permitted and indicated. In modern Russian medicine, mandatory preventive vaccination against papillomavirus is not provided, but in the European Union and the United States this measure has long been mandatory and included in national immunization programs. In Russia, any woman can undergo it on her own, as prescribed by a doctor or at her own request.

The most common vaccine against human papillomavirus, Gardasil, produced in the UK, can be used in women and men up to 45 years of age, and has no contraindications in the presence of a pre-existing virus in the patient’s body. It is recommended to be vaccinated so that the papilloma virus does not cause problems and is suppressed by the human immune system.

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Contraindications and possible complications

The vaccine against human papillomavirus is administered intramuscularly. Before getting vaccinated, a face-to-face consultation with an immunologist and family doctor is necessary. It is necessary to get tested for HPV to make sure that the disease is not present in the body at the time of planning vaccination. Only a doctor is required to prescribe a vaccination!

Human papillomavirus - illustration in multiple magnification

• If a person is infected with papillomavirus at the time of vaccination, but his disease is mild or develops at an early stage, he can be vaccinated. In the case of an advanced and long-term course of the disease, it is not possible to vaccinate against papillomavirus until complete recovery using antiviral and immuno-enhancing drugs. As a result of complete recovery, the person can be vaccinated.
• Vaccination against the human papillomavirus is also contraindicated for people with hypersensitivity who are prone to allergic reactions to any of the components that the vaccine contains. These may include baker's yeast and yeast-like fungi. If a person is allergic, before getting vaccinated, he needs to inform the therapist about the presence of allergic reactions to medications. Those who have a reaction to the first dose of the administered drug also have absolute contraindications.
• Vaccination is not carried out if a person at the time of vaccination has infectious diseases in the acute stage or chronic pathologies of organs. Acute respiratory viral diseases are not a contraindication to vaccination.
• Women prone to anaphylactic reactions should notify their doctor. The doctor, in turn, must study the patient’s medical record in detail for previous reactions to vaccines and conduct a clinical examination. The treatment room must be equipped with anti-shock therapy devices. In order to avoid severe allergic reactions and anaphylactic shock, a patient prone to such pathologies must be under medical supervision for at least half an hour after vaccination.

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Pregnancy and vaccination

Due to the lack of specific studies on the effects of the vaccine on pregnant women, pregnancy is a contraindication to vaccination. Animal studies of HPV have not shown any negative effects on offspring; vaccination is not recommended for pregnant women, since antibodies to vaccine antigens can be isolated in breast milk. If at the time of primary or secondary vaccination a woman finds out that she is pregnant, vaccination against the human papillomavirus should be immediately canceled until the end of gestation and birth of the child.

Regarding the lactation period in women, doctors' opinions are divided. Officially, breastfeeding is not an absolute direct contraindication to vaccination against human papillomavirus, but some doctors do not recommend the administration of Gardasil and Cervirax to nursing mothers, unless the therapeutic benefits outweigh the possible risks. A woman vaccinated with Cervirax during lactation should interrupt breastfeeding for at least several days.

HPV vaccination can be combined with the hepatitis B vaccine; there are no contraindications for combining these drugs. No studies have been conducted on other vaccines; the human papillomavirus vaccine does not contain components that could adversely affect the safety and effectiveness of other vaccination medications. Despite this, before vaccination against human papillomavirus, you should inform your physician about vaccinations with another vaccine, and about taking medications at the time of vaccination.

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Side effects

No complications were observed in patients after Cervirax. Like any vaccine or conventional medications, vaccination against papillomavirus in some cases can cause allergic and anaphylactic reactions. Patients predisposed to them should be extremely careful and be sure to inform the doctor about the presence of allergic reactions, especially to medications and their components. There have been no cases of overdose with HPV vaccines.

As with any other inactivated vaccines, after vaccination against the human papillomavirus, the patient may experience minor adverse reactions. Redness, slight swelling and thickening, pain, or, conversely, decreased sensitivity at the injection site appear. There are frequent cases of general malaise after the administration of the vaccine, including a slight increase in temperature (up to 38C), fever, and chills. More serious side effects include complications from the central nervous system.

Vaccinated people often experience quite severe headaches, a feeling of fatigue and apathy, and dizziness. On the part of the digestive tract, there may be consequences such as vomiting and nausea, diarrhea, pain localized in the epigastric region, and short-term disturbances in intestinal function. Myalgia (muscle pain) is common. In young women, after receiving the injection, a vasodepressor reaction (fainting) may occur. Therefore, after using the vaccine, the patient is recommended to rest for 15-20 minutes.

Vaccination against the human papillomavirus, contrary to widespread rumors and myths, does not pose any health risks, especially from the development of papillomavirus, but there is a possibility of developing infertility! The components of the vaccine are genetically modified, do not contain active genetic viral material and cannot contribute to infection by the virus and the development of the disease. There is no risk of developing cancer due to the introduction of the vaccine.

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Girl's vaccination procedure

Vaccination is recommended for females under 26 years of age. Studies of older age groups do not provide clear results regarding the safety and effectiveness of the vaccination course. Vaccination is most recommended for girls who have not previously had sexual intercourse. This is not the only advantage - immunity to HPV in girls from 10 to 12 years of age is formed twice as strong as in older girls and women.

Immunity to the virus after administration of the drug lasts for at least 6 years, based on medical observations. The question of vaccinating boys and men remains open at the moment. In Western countries, boys and young men are required to be vaccinated along with women. This prevents the virus from penetrating papillomas and condylomas into the body and reduces the risk of infection of women by men. Preparations for vaccination against papillomavirus are aimed at increasing immunity to.

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What is the cost of the procedure and where can it be done?

Vaccination is not included in the calendar of preventive vaccinations in Russia, due to its relatively high cost. The duration of the vaccination course is usually 6 months, but if the patient for some reason missed the second or third injection, it is given immediately, as soon as possible. Vaccination is considered completed if the drug has been administered completely throughout the year.

The price for a full course of vaccination in Moscow and the Moscow region is 13-15 thousand rubles, depending on the vaccine manufacturer and the location of the procedure. The vaccine significantly reduces the chance of a “bad” manifestation of HPV, so it is recommended to get vaccinated.

You can vaccinate yourself or your child by seeking advice and referral from a general practitioner at your local clinic. If vaccination at the clinic becomes impossible due to the lack of the drug or for other reasons, you should contact a specialized vaccination center, which is present in any major city. You can contact a private clinic with a desire to get vaccinated. The cost in such institutions will be higher, but the end always justifies the means.

Attention: the vaccine can cause infertility! It is not recommended to use this remedy in the fight against HPV.

Comments

Megan92 () 2 weeks ago

Has anyone managed to get rid of papillomas in their armpits? They really bother me, especially when you sweat.

Daria () 2 weeks ago

I have already tried so many things and only after reading this article, I was able to get rid of papillomas in the armpits (and on a very budget).

P.S. Only I’m from the city and couldn’t find it on sale here, so I ordered it online.

Megan92 () 13 days ago

Daria () 12 days ago

megan92, that’s what I wrote in my first comment) I’ll duplicate it just in case - link to article.

Sonya 10 days ago

Isn't this a scam? Why do they sell on the Internet?

Yulek26 (Tver) 10 days ago

Sonya, what country do you live in? They sell it on the Internet because stores and pharmacies charge outrageous markups. In addition, payment is only after receipt, that is, they first looked, checked and only then paid. And now they sell everything on the Internet - from clothes to TVs and furniture.

Editor's response 10 days ago

Sonya, hello. This drug for the treatment of papillomavirus infection is indeed not sold through pharmacy chains and retail stores in order to avoid inflated prices. Currently you can only order from official website. Be healthy!

Sonya 10 days ago

I apologize, I didn’t notice the information about cash on delivery at first. Then everything is fine if payment is made upon receipt.

Margo (Ulyanovsk) 8 days ago

Has anyone tried traditional methods to get rid of warts and papillomas?

Andrey A week ago

I tried to burn off a wart on my head with vinegar. The wart really went away, only in its place there was such a burn that my finger hurt for another month. And the most annoying thing is that after a month and a half, two more warts popped up nearby ((

Ekaterina A week ago

I tried to burn out the papilloma with celandine - it didn’t help, it just turned black and became so scary (((

The human papillomavirus is present only in the basal layers of the skin, but multiplies in the superficial layers. Its life cycle takes place exclusively in the cells of a living organism; in the external environment its existence is limited in time. As the virus multiplies, it disrupts the normal division of skin cells, which leads to the formation of papillomas.

There are more than 100 varieties of human papillomaviruses. Depending on the type, benign formations may appear on the skin and mucous membranes, or precancerous and oncological (including cervical cancer). Transmission of the virus occurs through contact and household methods. Often the infection does not manifest itself in any way; the pathogen is in the latent phase, in rare cases becoming more active. If there are no symptoms, then no treatment is carried out.

The danger of the presence of the papilloma virus in the body is that it can contribute to the development of genital infections. Most often, such diseases can be treated without leaving consequences. But there is a risk of developing precancerous stages of the genital organs in women and men, since a small percentage of viruses are oncogenic, that is, they cause cancer, in particular cervical cancer.

Human papillomavirus infection can lead to the development of a number of diseases, such as: malignant tumors of the brain, neck, external genitalia, cervix, anus, condylomas in the perineal area and recurrent respiratory papillomatosis.

It is possible to prevent the development of cancer with timely qualified medical care. Not taking the problem seriously and ignoring the symptoms of the disease can lead to death. Because the human papillomavirus is capable of degenerating tissue cells into neoplasia - precancerous conditions. For example, it takes 15 years for cervical cancer to develop. HPV 16 and 18 have a high oncogenic index.

There is a vaccine that can protect the body from infection with various types of cancer. Vaccination against human papillomavirus infection significantly reduces the risk of developing cancer. In Russia, its use began quite recently, in 2006, during which time the number of infected people has significantly decreased.

Composition and effect of the vaccine

The main component of the vaccine is an artificially synthesized papilloma virus. Its introduction into the body provokes the development of immunity, which protects against the most common and dangerous types of the virus, which contribute to the development of genital warts in both sexes and the development of cervical cancer.

Vaccination against papillomavirus not only blocks infections in the body, but is also a preventive measure for diseases that develop against the background of viruses with oncogenic potential. The immunity developed after vaccination lasts for quite a long time – several decades.

If the human papillomavirus is already present in the body, then the vaccination will not bring any results, and in some cases it can be harmful. Due to the fact that transmission of infection occurs most often through sexual contact, it is advisable to vaccinate before the start of sexual activity. If time is lost, then before the procedure it is necessary to undergo tests to detect HPV.

There are two types of vaccines used to combat the papilloma virus, which leads to different types of cancer (most often - cervical and genital cancer).

• Vaccination Gardasil , its action is aimed at developing immunity against four types of HPV: 6.11, 16 and 18. This vaccination is called and made in Holland pharmaceutical company "MSD".
• Vaccination Cervarix, protects against HPV types 16 and 18, produced in Belgium by GSK Biologicals.

Today, Gardasil is a more studied drug; its use is possible during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Both of these vaccines do not contain the DNA of the causative agent of papillomavirus infection. Their action is based on the presence of viral envelope proteins, which trigger a protective reaction of immune cells with the production of antibodies. Upon contact with an infected person, these antibodies will protect the body from infection and further development of cancer.

The vaccine is absolutely safe Due to the absence of genetic material from viruses, the risk of developing an infection after vaccination is zero. In addition to the protein component, vaccines contain aluminum hydroxide, antibiotics and preservatives.

Both vaccines are sterile the drug is available in disposable syringes or 0.5 ml bottles. They must be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 2 to 8°C. After freezing, the suspension becomes unsuitable for use and the immunogenic properties disappear.

As a result of laboratory and clinical tests, both Cervarix and Gardasil showed a high level of protection against infection with the human papillomavirus. With vaccination, the risk of developing cervical cancer is reduced by 95%.

Vaccinations are for both sexes However, special attention is paid to girls, because in this case the risk of transmitting HPV to the unborn child disappears.

Scheme and method of vaccination

Full course of vaccination against papilloma virus consists of three procedures. Gardasil is given according to the scheme: 0, 2, 6. The second vaccination is carried out 2 months after the first, the third – 6 months after the first. If circumstances require a faster course of Gardasil, the second dose can be administered at least 4 weeks after the first, the third - 12 weeks after the second.

Cervarix administration schedule: 0, 1, 6. The second procedure is prescribed a month after the first, and the third – six months after the first. There is a compressed version of the course, its scheme: 0.1, 2.5.

If for some reason the deadlines recommended by the scheme are not met or are increased, there is nothing to worry about. It is possible to continue the course with subsequent adherence to time intervals. Gardasil and Cervarix are not interchangeable: in one course of vaccination these two drugs cannot be mixed or alternated.

HPV vaccine placed intramuscularly in the thigh or shoulder. With this type of administration, a vaccine depot is formed, and absorption into the blood occurs gradually. This ensures greater effectiveness of the drug; a sufficient number of antibodies are formed to prevent the development of infection.

The intravenous method of administering the drug results in a one-time release of the entire dose into the blood, the immune system is over-activated, antigens are destroyed, and antibodies are not synthesized. Immune protection against HPV is not formed. Intradermal or subcutaneous administration leads to a slow release of the vaccine into the blood. This also promotes the destruction of antigens and the absence of antibodies.

Contraindications for vaccination

Vaccination against human papillomavirus and cervical cancer can only be given after consultation with an immunologist and therapist. Before the vaccination procedure, it is necessary to check for the presence of human papillomavirus using laboratory tests. The results will confirm or refute the presence of the disease.

Contraindications for vaccination include the following cases:

• severe and long-term course of the disease caused by HPV. Vaccination can be given after complete recovery by taking antiviral and immunity-boosting drugs. If the disease is at the initial stage of development or occurs in a mild form, then vaccination is possible;
• hypersensitivity, tendency to allergic manifestations when exposed to one or more components of the drug. These may include yeast and some types of antibiotics. A patient prone to allergies must inform the doctor about this. An absolute contraindication for vaccination is a reaction to the initial administration of the vaccine;
• infectious diseases during exacerbation, chronic diseases of internal organs. The exception is ARVI;
• pregnancy is a contraindication for vaccination with Cervarix, since there is insufficient evidence of the safety of vaccination for the unborn child. Vaccination with Cervarix is ​​also not recommended. during lactation . In this case, vaccination with the drug Gardasil is possible; research data indicate that there is no harmful effect on the fetus during pregnancy and on the child during breastfeeding.

Post-vaccination reactions and complications

The reactogenicity of the vaccine against papilloma and cancer of the genital organs and cervix is ​​very low, so there are no side effects after either Gardasil or Cevirax. The procedure is easily tolerated; in the first 48 hours, the body’s reaction characteristic of any inactivated vaccine may appear.

The following manifestations are possible:

• pain, itching and slight swelling at the needle insertion site. Local reactions do not cause significant discomfort, they do not need to be treated, they go away on their own, leaving no traces;
• weakness, general malaise, increased body temperature up to 38°C, chills. Antipyretic and pain-relieving drugs can be used to eliminate symptoms. If you have allergies, vaccination should be carried out while taking antihistamines;
• Vasodepressor reactions, or syncope, may occur in adolescents. They are temporary and disappear after puberty. Help for such conditions comes down to reducing physical activity, increasing access to fresh air;
• disorders of the gastrointestinal tract: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, pain in the epigastric region. To improve the condition, you can take medications aimed at eliminating these symptoms.

Vaccination locations, cost of the procedure

Due to the widespread introduction of vaccination against human papillomavirus and cervical cancer, this procedure can be performed in a number of institutions:

• at the district clinic;
• at a vaccination center;
• in the gynecology department of a general institution;
• in an inpatient oncology department;
• in a private organization providing medical services with a license to provide vaccination.

The price of an inoculation (vaccine) against the human papillomavirus depends mainly on the type of vaccine, as well as on the region and the markup of the medical organization.

Average cost of the drug in Russia Gardasil - from 5,000 to 8,000 rubles, Cervarix is ​​a little cheaper, its price ranges from 3,000 to 6,000 rubles. Suspensions for vaccination are produced by two companies and purchased at the same cost.

Useful video about the vaccine against human papillomavirus

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The HPV vaccine is a way to gain immunity to some dangerous strains of the virus. The vaccine is effective against 4 strains of the virus and avoids complications that have spread widely throughout the world. This is especially true for women.

HPV is a virus that causes the appearance of papilloma; some strains infect the area of ​​cervical dysplasia. Human papillomavirus infection is widespread throughout the world, affecting men and women who are sexually active.

To prevent infection with a virus that has oncogenic potential, it was decided to create a vaccine for prophylactic purposes.

The peculiarity of the vaccination is that the target group is girls under 25 years of age. Men have a lower incidence of cancer than women. Vaccination of women is more effective. It is performed before sexual activity begins, when the risk of infection is minimal.

There are countries that carry out HPV prevention in men in order to reduce the amount of the virus in the population.

What types of HPV and their consequences does the vaccine protect against?

Vaccination promotes the development of active immunity to human papillomavirus types 6, 11, 16 and 18. The first two cause the development of genital warts. They are found in 9 out of 10 cases of growths. HPV 6 and 11 are strains with low oncogenic risk.

HPV 16 and 18 are viruses with a high oncogenic risk; they develop in the zone of dysplasia of the cervical epithelium.

The use of vaccinations allows you to avoid infection and the development of consequences that cause enormous damage to physical, psychological, and financial well-being.

Which vaccine against papillomavirus to choose

There are several options for HPV vaccines (in foreign sources “hpv vaccine”): Gardasil and Cervarix. They have a similar principle of action: they contain recombinant (artificially created) capsid proteins (the outer shell of the virus), with which immunocompetent cells interact, and active immunity develops.

Gardasil contains four common, dangerous types of proteins (6, 11, 16, 18). There is a vaccine against HPV “Gardasil 9”, which provides for the formation of specific antibodies to 5 other types – 31, 33, 45, 52, 58.

Gardasil has the following indications:

• prevention of cancer of the cervix, vulva, and vagina in women; penile cancer, anal carcinoma in men;
• prevention of the appearance of genital papillomas on the genitals.

Vaccination has a low risk of side effects. It is safe for pregnant and lactating women. There is no negative impact on the health of the baby or childbearing.

The Cervarix vaccine is bivalent; immunity is formed to two types - 16 and 18, which are considered provoking factors in 70% of cervical cancer. Contains viral capsid proteins, but differs in adjuvant. An adjuvant is a substance that can deposit an antigen and increase its effect on the immune system. The titer of antibodies when using the vaccine became 16-26 times greater than when they were naturally produced as a result of infection.

The Cervarix vaccine does not protect the body from types 6 and 11. When used, antibodies are cross-produced to species 31 and 45, which have a high oncogenic risk and can provoke the development of condylomas, carcinomas of the mucous membranes, Bowen's disease, bowenoid papulosis.

Side effects common to most vaccinations:

• fever;
• chills;
• hyperemia, swelling in the injection area;
• pain at the injection site;
• hives.

Currently, a therapeutic vaccine is being developed that can neutralize the oncogenic effect of the virus by destroying oncoproteins and stimulating the immune system to destroy infected atypical cells. It is effective for treating precancerous conditions.

The choice of vaccination depends on the attending physician and the drug.

Both drugs have a low risk of side effects. "Gardasil" has a wider spectrum of action, "Cervarix" has a longer, more pronounced antiviral effect, but its range of action is narrower.

According to epidemiological studies, the prevalence of specific types of HPV varies from country to country. Rational use of the vaccine will prevent infection with a common strain for a particular area.

Vaccination scheme

After contacting a dermatologist, the doctor will conduct an examination and prescribe tests. After diagnosis, confirmation of the absence of infection in the body, contraindications, the doctor will familiarize you with the vaccination schedule.

Gardasil. Immunization of children is carried out from 9 to 17 years, women from 18 to 26. The method of administration according to the instructions is intramuscularly into the deltoid muscle or into the quadriceps femoris muscle. Inject 0.5 ml.

The course consists of three introductions: 2 months after the first, the last in the sixth month. There is an accelerated course: the second injection is carried out a month after the first injection, and the last one – 3 months after the second. If there is a violation of the order of application, vaccination is considered successful when all doses are administered within a year.

Cervarix. The optimal dose for vaccination of girls over 10 years of age is 0.5 ml. Inserted in the deltoid region of the arm. Administration scheme:

• first use;
• the second – a month later;
• the third - at 6 months.

Up to what age can you get vaccinated?

The human papillomavirus vaccine is given between the ages of 9 and 25-26 years. During this period, a person is either not sexually active or has just started; the likelihood of carrying the virus is low. As a result of vaccination, immunity is formed for a long time (minimum 5 years). Revaccination is not carried out.

If a person is not infected with HPV types 6, 11, 16, 18 and is over 26 years of age, he can be vaccinated.

Vaccination against persistent human papillomavirus in the body is ineffective

Does an already infected person need a vaccine against papillomavirus?

The virus penetrates into cells, where it loses its protein coat, its genetic apparatus takes control of the cell, beginning the assembly of new viral particles. When the virus actively multiplies, we speak of a productive infection. When the papillomavirus transforms into an integrated form, the clinical signs disappear and a nonproductive HPV infection develops. It is the integrated form that is most dangerous. In this state, the genes responsible for the synthesis of oncogenic proteins E6 and E7 are activated, which contribute to the immortalization of epidermal cells.

The introduction of vaccination leads to the appearance of specific antibodies that can recognize the protein shell of the virus. When it enters the body, it is recognized and destroyed. If a person is already infected, before going to the hospital, the cells are already subject to changes. Antibodies inside them cannot recognize the infectious agent. Vaccination in this case is ineffective.

Doctors' opinions on the HPV vaccine: pros and cons

A number of myths have accumulated around the vaccine:

1. There is no evidence of protection against cancer.
2. The vaccine protects against all types of HPV.
3. Leads to infertility.
4. Only done for girls.
5. Harm of pregnancy.
6. The vaccine is used to treat bovine papillomavirus.

Myth 1. Vaccinations were developed at the end of the 20th century; existing experience with their use is insignificant. It excludes the development of cervical cancer with HPV infection.

Myth 2. Gardasil and Cervarix protect only against a narrow list of HPV types. There are more than 140 types that can cause warts, condylomas, and other manifestations of infection. The vaccine protects against 4 strains.

Myth 3. Data on impaired fertility in vaccinated people over the years of monitoring were not found.

Myth 4. Boys are rarely vaccinated. The unpopularity of Gardasil for vaccinating men is due to the fact that forms of cancer induced by HPV do not occur, and cervical cancer is one of the most common oncologies.

Myth 5. Vaccinations during the study did not show a negative effect on the fetus, but due to the small sample size, we cannot be completely sure of this. Not recommended for use during pregnancy.

Myth 6. Some people believe that the drugs are used to vaccinate cattle against papillomatosis. Human papillomavirus (not bovine or bovine) does not affect cattle.

Contraindications to HPV vaccination

Contraindications to vaccination:

• individual intolerance to the components of the drug;
• development of allergic reactions during previous administration;
• feverish condition;
• the presence of inflammation at the injection site.

Relative contraindications for Gardasil HPV vaccination:

• thrombocytopenia;
• hemophilia;
• coagulation disorders when taking anticoagulants;
• fever.

Vaccination is the most reliable means of preventing most viral diseases. There are vaccinations against a wide variety of diseases, including the HPV vaccine.

Human immunity receives information about how to cope with the virus - and can effectively eliminate it in the future. Let's consider this vaccination in all its nuances.

What is HPV?

The human papillomavirus is not a single virus, but a whole group that includes several hundred related strains of viruses. Most of them cause warts and condylomas on the skin and mucous membranes - an unpleasant problem, but quite easily eliminated surgically, cauterization, cryodestruction and other similar methods.

Some strains are highly oncogenic, that is, they can provoke the development of cancerous tumors, mainly in the genital area. The most common causes of cancer are types No. 16 and No. 18. And it is to combat them that HPV vaccination is carried out.

The only reliable and effective way to combat HPV is prevention. Careful attention to the choice of sexual partners will help reduce the risk of contracting the virus, because This is how the disease is most often transmitted. But the most reliable protection is vaccination; its effectiveness is close to 100%.

Once infected with the virus, it is no longer possible to recover completely from the virus. Even with high immunity, it will remain in the body, even if it does not always manifest itself in any way. Treatment can only be symptomatic - removal of warts and other formations on the skin, taking medications to improve immunity.

What drugs to treat?

Only two means are used for vaccination against HPV:

Both vaccinations are equally effective in combating oncogenic strains of papillomavirus No. 16 and No. 18, so usually the choice depends solely on the availability of a particular drug at the current moment.

Which vaccine is better?

Although the vaccines are almost entirely the same in terms of effectiveness, there are a few differences. In particular, the range of action and area of ​​application of the drug "Gadrasil" is wider - it can be used for both women and men, starting from the age of 9.

In addition, this remedy also protects against two other types of virus No. 6 and No. 11, which cause the appearance of warts and condylomas. Cervarix is ​​used only for vaccination of women and only for the prevention of oncogenic strains of HPV No. 16 and No. 18. If you need to solve this particular problem, then Cervarix is ​​suitable, but in other situations it is better to choose the Gadrasil vaccine.

Vaccination scheme

The injection is performed only intramuscularly in the thigh or shoulder, because in these parts of the body, the muscle layer is well developed and is located close to the surface of the skin due to a fairly thin fat layer. The dose of the drug is 0.5 ml at a time for all patients, regardless of age, weight and other parameters.

Depending on the drug used, the vaccination procedure differs:

Immunity against HPV is finally formed on average one month after the last third injection.

Indications

Vaccination against HPV is indicated to prevent the most dangerous strains of the virus. Young people are most often infected with them during their first sexual intercourse. Accordingly, it is advisable to vaccinate with this vaccine before this time, especially since both drugs used for vaccination are approved for use from 9-10 years of age.

Official WHO guidelines are as follows: vaccination is recommended for all young people between 16 and 23 years of age. Before the procedure, it is advisable to test for the presence of the virus, since even if the patient is not sexually active, it could be transmitted to him from his mother.

Clinical studies of vaccination drugs were carried out only on people under 26 years of age, so people over this age are not given the vaccine. It is also usually not given to people already infected with the virus due to its low effectiveness.

However, due to the fact that in some cases, in patients with HPV under 35 years of age, the introduction of the vaccine helped alleviate the course of the disease, on the recommendation of a doctor, the vaccine can be given to already infected women who have long since passed the age of 26.

Video about the HPV vaccine

Contraindications

The HPV vaccine is not given to:

A relative contraindication for vaccination is any chronic disease in the acute stage, as well as fever and/or a cold - before administering the vaccine, it is necessary to wait until the woman’s condition improves.

In case of bleeding disorders caused by diseases or taking anticoagulants, the advisability of vaccination should be determined in each case individually.

Side effects

Usually, the HPV vaccine is tolerated easily by the female body and without any discomfort.

However, in some patients the possibility of the following symptoms cannot be excluded:

Directly at the injection site, a local tissue reaction is possible, which manifests itself in:

• Redness;
• Itching;
• The formation of a slight swelling.

Patients prone to allergic reactions are recommended to take Zyrtec, Erius or another anti-allergy drug on the eve of each vaccine administration.

Cost of vaccination

Vaccination against HPV with the drug "Cervarix" will cost an average of 4-6 thousand rubles for a full course, that is, this is the price for 3 injections, the cost of an injection with the drug "Gadrasil" is 5-8 thousand rubles. Vaccines can be purchased in pharmacies with a prescription, and injections should only be performed by doctors - in a clinic, cancer clinic or gynecological department of a hospital.

In some medical institutions that receive good funding, vaccination can be done free of charge as part of compulsory medical insurance.

Before you read the article, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the correspondence that took place between the editor-in-chief and the scientific editor of this journal. And we remind you that a gynecologist of the highest category Evgenia Nazimova is the author of an article about the positive effect of vaccination against HPV (human papillomavirus. The text of the article is on our website), so we turned to her, having received from readers a link to another article, where vaccines are sharply criticized and women are warned about sabotage: supposedly these vaccines cause infertility, this is the insidious plan of their manufacturers. We imagined a direct global contract killing (of potential life on earth). And we decided to figure it out.

Evgenia, good afternoon! Readers of the magazine via the website sent me a link to your article about HPV vaccinations and another link to a terrible article about the same vaccinations. This other article was published on the Internet in 2011, there are many credible (at first glance) arguments, examples, and quite significant sources are given. But she warns against vaccinations at all costs. I copied it and attached it to this letter.
As far as I understand, vaccination in our country is in full swing and, perhaps, there really are negative facts such as deaths and side effects (as threatened in the text attached to the letter). Is it worth warning girls and women about something? So as not to take sin on your soul.

• Hello, Alla. I'm honestly shocked. I don’t even know how to comment on all this nonsense. And this is exactly him. If you think it necessary, I can think about what to write in response. But this must be an extremely reasoned answer, otherwise there is no point in simply throwing mud at each other. By the way, the market for these vaccines in our country is extremely small, and no one is forced to get vaccinated. Therefore, I don’t see a problem at all: if you want to get cancer, you’ll get pain.

Evgenia, I admit that this is nonsense, but women are worried. Are there any studies (long-term results) on these vaccines that prove the opposite of what is said in the “scary article”? It is no secret that in the West, science moves quickly, and every year new drugs are introduced into the market. You will inevitably suspect that they are bringing old stuff to us and where is the guarantee that it is of high quality, and not something that was abandoned in the West. Is it true that they prefer other drugs, and these vaccines are not respected?

• But I don’t understand why our women are worried. In our country, unlike America, no one is going to be vaccinated in a general manner. The vaccine is expensive, and only a few can afford it. And, of course, before spending money, they will talk to their doctor and decide for themselves whether they want to be vaccinated or not.
  Of course, there are long-term results; they are reported to us at least twice a year at congresses. And they are very optimistic. But in order to make an article, you need to seriously delve into scientific materials. I don't know how justified this is. The rabid opponents of vaccination will still not change their minds, but normal people, if something is unclear, will consult their doctors.

• My friend lives in America and does research for a disease control organization. She recently got vaccinated with Gardasil because she got divorced and now has a risk of infection as a result of changing her sexual partner. This is common practice in the USA. Not to mention the girls who are vaccinated there for free. True, medicine is completely different. Doctors are practically gods, and no one discusses their appointments. I have had cases when, after treatment for severe cervical dysplasia, patients’ views on vaccination changed dramatically. While you talk about cancer in the abstract, everything is simple; when you come face to face with it, you begin to think in other categories.

• Allah, I wrote an article, take a look. I know for sure that in the USA there is no treatment for HPV. Are waiting. If cervical dysplasia develops, it is eliminated surgically. Then they wait again. If it develops again, they cut the neck again. Would you like to do this or try to do something to prevent the development of dysplasia? My patients 100% choose the second option. Moreover, even if I tell them that their virus is not at all dangerous (after assessing all the data) and they can just observe, they regularly enter into discussions with me so that I again convince them that nothing terrible is happening to them. And recently, one American woman asked me to send her a package with a set of medications for the treatment of HPV, since she learned from my friend that we were treating it and she felt somehow uncomfortable sitting and waiting for cancer.

Typical environment

In 2008, Harald zur Hausen received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his discovery of human papillomaviruses, which cause cervical cancer. From that moment on, our ideas about oncological processes have changed. The basis that is necessary for the development of this disease has become known. Previously, we talked about cancer as a multifactorial process. Now, with regard to at least cervical cancer, we can say that if many factors coincide, but in the absence of infection with a certain type of virus, the probability of developing cancer tends to zero.

Currently, more than 120 types of HPV are known. Most of them belong to the so-called low-oncogenic viruses. This means that these viruses are unlikely to lead to the development of cancer, but can cause other problems. They are “to blame,” for example, for the occurrence of viral plantar warts (type 1), warts on other areas of the skin (type 2), flat warts (type 3), and skin papillomas. More than 30 types of papillomavirus can infect human genitals.

As a result of numerous studies, it has been established that 99.7% of women with cervical cancer are infected with various types of HPV. In more than half of cases of cervical cancer, type 16 of the virus is detected. Collectively, types 16, 18, 31, 33 and 45 are found in 85% of cervical cancer cases. These viruses are grouped into a group of high oncogenic risk.

In addition to the above, viruses of a high oncogenic type include 35, 39, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 66, 68, 73 and 82.

The group of low oncogenic risk viruses that infect the genitals includes types 6, 11, 36, 42, 43, 44, 46, 47 and 50.

Beaten track

Viruses that infect the genitals are transmitted through contact. Most often in adults it is sexual transmission. Moreover, the possibility of infection of the oral cavity during oral-genital sex and the rectal mucosa through anogenital contact has been proven. When infected with oncogenic types of papilloma viruses, cancer can also develop in the oral cavity and anal area.

In the case of the cervix, dysplasia develops first, and if left untreated, cancer develops. Various factors contribute to the progression of the process: smoking, having a large number of sexual partners, other sexually transmitted infections, disruption of the vaginal microflora, abortion and other reasons that reduce immune defense.

All these factors, as well as hereditary predisposition, certainly influence the likelihood of developing cervical cancer. And to prevent the disease, you need to quit smoking, be more selective in sexual relations, increase your immunity and regularly visit the gynecologist. But in the absence of the papilloma virus, all these factors are unlikely to work. This means that the main element of prevention is to prevent HPV infection.

HPV opponents

It has been proven that barrier methods of contraception (condoms, spermicides) can reduce the likelihood of infection, but, unfortunately, cannot prevent it completely. If a woman regularly visits a gynecologist and does not have cervical diseases or genital infections, the likelihood of infection will also decrease, but does not disappear completely. The opportunity to have only one sexual partner throughout your life, alas, is rare.

Currently, the only highly effective method of preventing HPV infection is vaccination. Currently, two vaccines are registered in Russia. The first one, Gardasil, appeared in our country in 2006. Its use can protect against infection by the two most dangerous types in terms of cancer development - the 16th and 18th, and two non-oncogenic types - the 6th and 11th, which predominantly cause the formation of condylomas (genital warts). This vaccine can be given to girls and women from 9 to 45 years of age.

The recommended course consists of 3 doses and is carried out according to the scheme 0-2-6 months: the second dose – 2 months after the first, the third – 6 months after the first. It is currently believed that this regimen forms lifelong immunity and does not require revaccination (re-administration after some time).

The second vaccine, Cervarix, appeared in Russia in 2008. It is able to protect against infection by viruses of types 16 and 18. Cross activity against infection with types 31 and 45 has also been proven. That is, this vaccine is intended only for the prevention of cervical cancer.

The recommended course of vaccination consists of 3 doses and is carried out according to the scheme 0-1-6 months: the second dose – 1 month after the first, the third – 6 months after the first. It is believed that this regimen forms lifelong immunity and does not require revaccination. Vaccination with Cervarix is ​​recommended between the ages of 10 and 25 years.

In both cases, I say that we consider immunity to be lifelong because knowledge about this vaccine accumulates over time. It was initially assumed that revaccination may be required after 5 to 10 years. But when this time passed, it turned out that all women vaccinated during the study stage retained their immunity and there was no need to re-administer the drug. Monitoring of these women continues to this day.

Under suspicion

Both vaccines are widely distributed around the world. In many countries (USA, 23 European countries, Mexico, UAE, Australia, New Zealand, Colombia) they are included in the official vaccination schedule and are free. Moreover, in some countries (Denmark, Canada, Australia, Sweden, Switzerland) they vaccinate not only girls, but also boys, in order to reduce the number of sources of infection for women, and, according to the latest data, to protect boys from developing cancer of the oral cavity and anogenital area.

In our country, HPV vaccination is not widespread, as it is mostly paid and is not cheap. There are government programs that provide for the administration of vaccines on a budgetary basis to certain categories of citizens. But, in addition to the lack of funding, the program often faces a pronounced negative reaction from the people it is intended to protect. Let's look at the most common false accusations.

1. "You can become infected with HPV as a result of vaccination"

   This is wrong. Both vaccines are recombinant, that is, they do not contain directly viral particles, but only proteins similar to the shell of a natural virus, to which immune antibodies are produced.

2. "The vaccine can lead to the development of cervical cancer in those who were infected with the papilloma virus at the time of vaccination"

   But testing for HPV is not required before vaccination, since the vaccine does not in any way (neither positively nor negatively) affect the course of an existing viral process. It is intended solely for prevention and can only prevent infection with the virus. The vaccine is most effective for those who have not had sexual experience, because in this case we can definitely prevent infection and the development of cancer. But this does not mean that she poses any danger to others.

3. "The vaccine is not effective in preventing HPV infection"

   According to clinical studies, as a result of HPV vaccination, protective antibodies are formed in the blood of vaccinated individuals in quantities sufficient to prevent infection in 95 - 99% of cases, according to various sources. The vaccine shows 100% effectiveness against long-term (12 months or more) persistence of the virus in the cervix, thus preventing the development of dysplasia and cervical cancer.

4. "The vaccine cannot get rid of the papilloma virus"

   This is true. It is not intended to treat infection, but only to prevent it. But if the body is naturally freed from the virus, vaccination will protect against re-infection, since natural immunity after an infection is weakly expressed and extremely unstable.

5. "Vaccinated girls may develop infertility, or the vaccine may adversely affect the health of their offspring."

   This postulate is usually put forward as the main one, but is not supported by anything. In some cases, an argument has been made to recommend against administering the vaccine during pregnancy. But this is understandable, since a woman’s immune system functions differently during pregnancy than outside of pregnancy, so full immunity to vaccines is not formed. In addition, during pregnancy it is generally not recommended to use any medications unless they are absolutely necessary. But if a vaccine injection is given accidentally during pregnancy, there is no need to terminate the pregnancy because there is no data on the possible effects of the vaccine on the health of the fetus.

6. "Vaccine administration often leads to severe complications and death"

   These vaccines are well tolerated. In most cases there are no side effects. There may be redness at the injection site (the vaccine is administered intramuscularly) and/or short-term soreness, headache and fatigue. After administration of the vaccine, it is recommended to monitor the patient for half an hour to exclude the occurrence of severe allergic reactions in the first place.

However, it should be remembered that there are contraindications for any vaccination. It is not recommended to vaccinate in case of an acute infectious or allergic disease at the time of vaccination, or a blood clotting disorder. Many other common diseases may contraindicate the administration of vaccines. Therefore, it is important that vaccination is carried out taking into account all the characteristics of the body. In this case, the vaccine will only be beneficial.

As of April 2011, more than 150,000 doses of the vaccine have been administered in Russia. In our country, everyone decides for themselves whether they want to protect themselves and/or their children from HPV. But when you make a decision, think of cancer not as something far away that happens to everyone but you or your loved ones. In Russia, more than 6,000 women die every year from cervical cancer. What is especially sad is that over the past 10 years, the incidence of cervical cancer among people under 29 years of age has increased 1.5 times. A girl who survives cancer, as a rule, undergoes crippling treatment and will definitely never become a mother.