Teenagers in England will begin receiving one human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine shot instead of two from September. This is in line with the most recent evidence and guidance already in place in Scotland.
Worldwide research suggests one dose may be sufficient to offer effective defence against several diseases such as cervical cancer.
School pupils aged between 11 and 13 are usually offered the vaccine.
As reported by the BBC, from September, in England, a single dose will be offered to:
- all children in Year 8 - aged 12-13
- eligible men who have sex with men, under the age of 25
Two doses will still be offered to:
- men who have sex with men, aged 25-45
Three doses will be offered to:
- people who have Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) or are immunosuppressed
The BBC reported that Wales had already announced it was moving to a one-dose schedule in September.
Experts hope that by extending the programme to boys, it will prevent 64,138 cervical cancers and 49,649 non-cervical cancers in the UK by 2058.
Here is all you need to know about the HPV virus and the vaccine to protect against it.
What is the HPV virus?
HPV is a group of more than 100 related viruses, with some types causing various health issues in humans.
HPV infections are common and most people will contract the virus at some point in their lives. The virus is typically transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It can also be spread through close skin-to-skin contact.
There are several types of HPV. Some low-risk strains can cause genital warts, which are non-cancerous growths on or around the genital area. These warts can vary in size and shape and may appear singly or in clusters.
On the other hand, high-risk HPV strains can lead to the development of certain cancers. These include cervical cancer, anal cancer, vaginal cancer, vulvar cancer, penile cancer, and some types of head and neck cancers.
It’s worth noting that while HPV is a prevalent virus, most HPV infections clear on their own without causing any significant health problems. However, regular check-ups and following healthcare recommendations are essential for early detection and timely intervention, if necessary.
How can HPV cause cervical cancer?
HPV can cause cervical cancer through a process that involves transmission during sexual contact. HPV infects cervical cells and, in some cases, persists in the body.
Certain high-risk HPV types, such as HPV-16 and HPV-18, can disrupt normal cell function, leading to precancerous lesions. If left untreated, these lesions can progress to cervical cancer by invading nearby tissues.
Regular screenings and HPV vaccination can help detect and prevent cervical cancer.
What is the HPV vaccine?
The HPV vaccination programme was introduced in Britain in September 2008. The programme initially targeted girls aged 12 to 13, with a catch-up campaign for girls up to 18.
In 2019, the vaccination programme was expanded to include boys. The introduction of the HPV vaccination programme aimed to reduce the incidence of HPV-related diseases, such as cervical cancer and other cancers associated with HPV infection.
Public Health England (PHE) said the programme meant infections of some strains of HPV in youngsters aged 16 to 21 had fallen by 86 per cent in England.
A Scottish study also suggested the vaccine had reduced pre-cancerous cervical disease in women by up to 71 per cent.
Similarly, diagnoses of genital warts have reportedly declined by 90 per cent in 15 to 17-year-old girls and by 70 per cent in 15 to 17-year-old boys.
From the start of the next school year, boys in Year 8 who are aged 12 and 13 will be given the jab with parental consent.
The first dose will be given in school in Year 8, with a follow-up dose six months to two years later, also given in school.
The HPV jab currently used by the NHS is Gardasil, which offers at least 10 years’ protection and possibly last a lifetime.
Giving boys the jab also protects girls from HPV.
PHE said there will be no catch-up programme for older boys aged 13 to 18.
Why do children get the vaccine at such a young age?
Since the virus is spread during sexual activity or skin-to-skin contact, it is best to vaccinate people before they become sexually active.
The NHS says the jab will work best before children have a chance to come into contact with the virus.
As such, it is hoped the vaccine will protect them for years afterwards.
Are there any side effects?
The NHS says that common side effects include
- bruising or itching at the site of the injection
- redness, swelling or pain at the side of injection
- a high temperature or feeling hot and shivery
- headaches
- nausea
- pain in the arms, hands, fingers, legs, feet or toes
Uncommon side effects include hives, difficulty breathing and feeling dizzy or faint afterwards.
