HPV Vaccine in Dubai
What is HPV and how common is it?
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted infection that can affect both men and women. It is primarily spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person. HPV can manifest in various forms, including genital warts and certain cancers.
The term “papilloma” refers to a kind of wart that results from some HPV types. Warts may look like small, flesh-colored bumps or have a cauliflower-like appearance. There are more than 100 types of HPV. Most are harmless, but about 30 types put you at risk for cancer. These types affect the genitals and you get them through sexual contact with an infected partner. Most cases of benign genital warts are caused by HPV: type 6 and type 11 (low-risk types) while HPV-related cervical cancers are caused by HPV: type 16 and type 18 (high-risk types).
More than 95% of cervical cancer is caused by sexually transmitted HPV.
HPV types 16 and 18, together responsible for approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases globally.
The prevalence of HPV is quite alarming. Sexually active persons may be at the risk of contracting the virus at some point. This means that most people are likely to encounter HPV at one time or another.
What makes HPV even more concerning is that many infected individuals may not exhibit any symptoms. They could unknowingly pass the infection to their partners without realizing it themselves.
Regular screenings and discussions about sexual health are crucial for early detection and prevention.
Given its high prevalence and potential health risks associated with long-term infections, protecting oneself against HPV becomes paramount. One effective way to do this is through vaccination – read on to know what HPV is and the importance of HPV vaccine in Dubai.
How does the HPV vaccine work?
The HPV vaccine is developed to protect against the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection. It stimulates the body’s immune system to produce antibodies against the virus. These antibodies help to prevent future HPV infections and associated health issues.
Vaccine Composition:
- The HPV vaccine contains small amounts of viral proteins that resemble those found in the HPV virus.
- These non-infectious proteins cannot cause the disease but are enough to trigger an immune response.
Immune Response:
- When the vaccine is administered, the body’s immune system recognises the viral proteins as foreign invaders.
- This recognition prompts the immune system to launch an immune response, creating specific antibodies to neutralise HPV.
Memory Cells:
- After vaccination, the immune system retains memory cells. These memory cells “remember” the HPV viral proteins so that the immune system can recognise and respond quickly if the person encounters the virus later.
Preventing Infection:
- If a vaccinated person comes into contact with HPV in the future, their immune system will recognise the virus and produce a swift response before it does any harm.
- This can prevent the development of genital warts and decrease the chances of developing certain types of cancers associated with high-risk strains of HPV, such as cervical, anal, vaginal, vulvar, penile, and throat cancer.
Targeted Strains:
- The vaccine is designed to protect against specific strains of HPV that are commonly associated with cancer and genital warts.
- The available HPV vaccines typically cover two, four, or nine types of HPV.
Importance of Vaccination:
- Vaccination against HPV is crucial for both males and females. It is typically recommended to be administered before the onset of sexual activity when exposure to the virus is less likely.
- Catch-up vaccinations may also be recommended for those who missed the vaccine in their early teens.
Who should get the HPV vaccine in Dubai?
While anyone sexually active can contract HPV, certain groups are at higher risk and should consider getting the HPV vaccine in Dubai.
- The HPV vaccine in Dubai is recommended for both boys and girls.
- Routine vaccination is recommended for individuals between 11 and 12 years old.
- Vaccination can be given as early as age 9, providing better protection before exposure to the virus.
- Young adults of around 26 years who have not received the vaccine should also consider getting vaccinated.
- This includes those not previously vaccinated or who had an incomplete vaccination series.
- People with weak immune systems that result from conditions like HIV or organ transplantation may benefit from vaccination against HPV.
- The HPV vaccine Dubai is most effective when administered before exposure to the virus.
- The HPV vaccine in Dubai helps prevent certain types of cancers (e.g., cervical, anal, penile) and genital warts caused by HPV.
- Individuals who have received the HPV vaccine should still practice safe sex to reduce the risk of contracting other sexually transmitted infections.
Potential side effects of the HPV vaccine to watch out for
Common and Mild Side Effects:
These are generally mild and temporary, usually resolving within a few days after vaccination.
- Pain or redness at the injection site
- Mild fever or headache
Allergic Reactions:
While extremely rare, some individuals may experience severe allergic reactions to the vaccine. Signs of an allergic reaction may include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Hives (itchy welts on the skin)
- Swelling of the face, throat, or tongue
While there can be minor and infrequent side effects from receiving the HPV vaccine, they are generally temporary and vastly outweighed by its protective benefits in preventing cervical cancer and other diseases caused by human papillomavirus infection.
Reach out Dr. Pranjali Singh for trusted HPV vaccine in Dubai
Suppose you are considering getting the HPV vaccine in Dubai. In that case, it is important to choose a trusted healthcare professional who can provide you with accurate information and administer the HPV vaccine safely. Dr. Pranjali Singh is an experienced gynaecologist doctor specialising in HPV vaccinations and can guide you through the process.
By vaccinating against HPV, you are taking an important step towards protecting yourself from this common and potentially dangerous virus. Remember, prevention is better than cure.
Consult Dr. Pranjali Singh for HPV vaccine in Dubai. With expertise and compassion, she ensures comprehensive protection against Human Papillomavirus, prioritizing your health and well-being.