Human Papillomavirus HPV Vaccine
What is the HPV Vaccine?
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines help to prevent infections by specific strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). The virus may lead to cervical cancer in women, as well as genital warts in both women and men.
HPV infections occur through skin-to-skin contact, like during sexual activity. Most infections do not have any signs or symptoms.
There are many different strains of the HPV, and strain 16 and 18 are the two main culprits that cause up to 70% of all cervical cancers.
Who should take the HPV vaccine?
Under the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) and National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS), the HPV vaccination is recommended if you are:
- A female aged 9 to 26 years old
- Not yet exposed to the HPV strains covered by the vaccines
- Sexually active
The vaccine can be given to the male, as they may still be susceptible to cancer caused by the HPV infection.
If you are above 26 years old and wish to receive the HPV vaccination, our doctor will assess and advice on your suitability.
What are the side effects of the HPV vaccine?
Side effects of the HPV vaccine may include pain or swelling over the injection site, as well as fever, headache, bodyache or tiredness.
These usually go away on their own within 2-3 days. Paracetamol can help to relieve the fever or pain.
What are the available HPV vaccines at Minmed?
| GARDASIL 9 | Cervarix | |
|---|---|---|
|
HPV subtype protection |
6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, 58 |
16, 18 |
|
Approved age |
Females and males aged 9 to 45, or as advised by our doctors |
Females aged 9 – 25, or as advised by our doctors |
|
Schedule |
Females aged 9 -14 Two doses, six to 12 months apart Females aged 15 – 26 Three doses at 0, 2 and 6 months |
Females aged 9 -14
Two doses, five to 13 months apart Females aged 15 – 25 Three doses: Second dose at 1 to 2.5 months after the first dose Third dose at 5 to 12 months after the first dose |
HPV Vaccine Prices and Subsidies
GARDASIL 9
$280 per dose
(inclusive of GST)
CERVARIX
CHAS Blue or Orange
Singaporean Females aged 18 - 26
$23 co-payment per dose
CERVARIX
CHAS Green
Singaporean Females aged 18 - 26
$45 co-payment per dose
Frequently Asked Questions
HPV Vaccine
If you are above 26 years old, you should consult our doctor who will advise you on your suitability.
The vaccines are approved for clinical use in males 9 to 26 years old. In Singapore, Cervarix is licensed for use in females only, whilst Gardasil 9 is licensed for use in both males and females.
If you are above 26 years old, you should consult our doctor who will advise you on your suitability.
The vaccines are effective if given before your first sexual exposure, and have not been exposed to the HPV types covered by the vaccine.
The vaccine will still benefit if you have been sexually active, as you may not have been exposed to the HPV sub types covered by the vaccines.
The vaccination may not be suitable for you if you are sensitive to yeast or any of the vaccine components. If you are having a moderate or severe acute infectious illness, please wait till you have recovered before taking the vaccine.
HPV vaccinations do not guarantee 100% protection, as with any other vaccination.
It is not compulsory in Singapore, but it is highly recommended for females to protect themselves against cervical cancer. HPV vaccination is included in the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) and National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) for the target population of females aged 9 to 26.
Males are not included in the above schedules, although the vaccines are licensed for use and available to males who wish to be protected from HPV.
HPV vaccination is not a substitute for routine cervical cancer screening. Women are still encouraged to continue going for Pap Smear tests once every 3 years (25 – 29 years old), or HPV tests once every 5 years (age above 30).
Studies have shown sustained protection against vaccine-targeted HPV-related diseases in long-term follow-up studies for the HPV vaccines.
There is currently no recommendation for additional doses or booster shots.
HPV vaccination is not recommended for pregnant women. If you are found to be pregnant midway through your vaccination schedule, the remaining doses should be postponed until after delivery.
There is insufficient data to assess the effects of HPV vaccination on the breastfed infant. You may wish to discuss this with your doctor.
