The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection that affects both men and women. In most cases, HPV goes away on its own, but in some cases, it can lead to cancer. That’s why it’s important to get vaccinated against HPV. However, not many people know when the HPV vaccine was introduced. In this article, we will explore the history of the HPV vaccine and understand when it debuted.
What is HPV?
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted infection that affects both men and women. It is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States. HPV can cause genital warts and various types of cancer.
How is HPV spread?
HPV is spread through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. HPV can be spread even if there are no visible signs or symptoms of the infection. Condoms cannot completely prevent the transmission of HPV. It is recommended to get vaccinated against HPV to prevent infection.
The development of the HPV vaccine
The development of the HPV vaccine began in the 1980s. Researchers discovered that some strains of HPV can cause cancer, and efforts were made to find a way to prevent HPV infection. The first HPV vaccine was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2006.
Types of HPV vaccines
There are three types of HPV vaccines available: Gardasil, Gardasil 9, and Cervarix. Gardasil and Gardasil 9 were developed by Merck & Co., while Cervarix was developed by GlaxoSmithKline. Gardasil and Gardasil 9 protect against four types of HPV, while Cervarix protects against two types of HPV.
How effective is the HPV vaccine?
The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing HPV infection. Studies have shown that the vaccine can prevent most cases of cervical cancer and genital warts. The vaccine is recommended for both males and females, and it is recommended to get vaccinated before becoming sexually active for maximum effectiveness.
When did the HPV vaccine debut?
The first HPV vaccine, Gardasil, was approved by the FDA in 2006. The vaccine was developed by Merck & Co. and protects against four types of HPV: 6, 11, 16, and 18. These types of HPV are responsible for causing most cases of cervical cancer and genital warts.
When was Gardasil 9 approved?
Gardasil 9, which was developed by Merck & Co., was approved by the FDA in 2014. Gardasil 9 protects against nine types of HPV: 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58. Gardasil 9 provides even greater protection against cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers than Gardasil.
When was Cervarix approved?
Cervarix, which was developed by GlaxoSmithKline, was approved by the FDA in 2009. Cervarix protects against two types of HPV: 16 and 18. These types of HPV are responsible for causing most cases of cervical cancer.
Common questions about the HPV vaccine
- Who should get the HPV vaccine? The HPV vaccine is recommended for both males and females ages 9 to 45.
- Is the HPV vaccine safe? Yes, the HPV vaccine is safe. The vaccine has undergone extensive testing and has been shown to be safe and effective.
- Can the HPV vaccine cause side effects? Yes, the HPV vaccine can cause side effects, but they are usually mild. The most common side effects are pain and redness at the injection site, fever, and headache.
- How many doses of the HPV vaccine are required? The number of doses required depends on the age at which the vaccine is given. For individuals ages 9 to 14, two doses are required. For individuals ages 15 to 45, three doses are required.
- How long does the HPV vaccine last? The HPV vaccine provides long-lasting protection, but it is not yet known how long the protection lasts. It is currently recommended to receive the vaccine before becoming sexually active for maximum effectiveness.
Conclusion
The HPV vaccine is an important tool in preventing HPV-related cancers and genital warts. The first HPV vaccine, Gardasil, was approved by the FDA in 2006, followed by Gardasil 9 in 2014 and Cervarix in 2009. The vaccine is highly effective and has undergone extensive testing to ensure its safety. It is recommended for both males and females ages 9 to 45.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). HPV and Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/hpv/index.htm
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). HPV Vaccines: Vaccinating Your Preteen or Teen. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/hpv/parents/vaccine.html
- US Food and Drug Administration. (2021). HPV (Human Papillomavirus) Vaccines. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/vaccines-blood-biologics/vaccines/hpv-human-papillomavirus-vaccines