For more information on our pricing for HPV vaccines and eligibility to qualify for the Medisave scheme for the HPV vaccination, please visit this page.
What is human papillomavirus?
There are over 150 strains of HPV, and infections are very common. Most infections pass without symptoms. Others cause papillomas (warts, usually on the genitals).
Some types of HPV are high risk as they are linked to the development of cancers of the mouth, throat, cervix, penis, vulva, vagina and anus, and you can be vaccinated against them.
How is HPV transmitted?
HPV is transmitted through contact between people, largely sexual contact. It is difficult to identify when the infection occurs because the symptoms can show up long afterwards.
What is the HPV vaccine?
The HPV vaccine can help prevent specific types of HPV infection that may lead to cervical cancer. The vaccine is part of the National Adult Immunisation Scheme initiated by MOH and women between the ages of 9 and 26 are recommended to get vaccinated.
The benefits of HPV vaccination are maximised when given before any sexual activity where HPV exposure may occur.
Three vaccines are currently approved for use in Singapore.
What are the prices of Clari Health HPV vaccines?
Clari Health offers affordable HPV vaccines starting from $100. For more information on pricing, please visit this page.
What are the symptoms of HPV?
Although most HPV infections do not cause symptoms and go away on their own, some produce small warts, usually in the genital area, or verrucas.
In some case where the body is not able to clear the infection, it can cause abnormal cell changes which can lead to cancer.
Is HPV curable?
HPV infections usually don’t cause serious harm and the body will get rid it naturally within 2 years, without treatment.
The virus itself cannot be treated but regular cervical cancer screening tests can either help to detect changes in the cervical cells caused by HPV infection (Pap test) or to identify high risk HPV cancer-causing strains. Cervical cancer can be prevented when the abnormal or pre-cancerous cells are identified and treated appropriately.
Genital warts can be treated with creams or chemicals, or by freezing, heating or removing them.
How can you prevent HPV?
Using condoms during sex can reduce the risk of contracting a gential HPV infection.
You can also be vaccinated against some types of HPV.
Who should get the HPV vaccine?
MOH recommends that the following groups of people, aside from women between the ages of 9 and 26, who have a higher risk of infection of HPV, should get the vaccine:
• Those with multiple sexual partners:
• Those with a weakened immune system due to Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), who are on 2 or more immune-system suppressing drugs etc.
Who should not get the HPV vaccine?
If you’ve previously had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of the HPV vaccine, or any ingredient in the HPV vaccine, or are pregnant, the CDC recommends that you do not get the vaccine.
If you are moderately or severely ill you should postpone your vaccination until you recover.
What is a HPV certificate?
A HPV certificate proves you have been vaccinated against HPV infection.
What is the recommended age for the HPV vaccine?
MOH recommends that vaccination be given between ages 9 and 26. The vaccination is most effective if it is given before the girl’s first sexual exposure.
What is the effectiveness of the HPV vaccine?
The vaccine has been shown to be over 99% effective at preventing pre-cancer caused by types 16 or 18 in young women. It also gives some protection against HPV strains that are not present in the vaccine itself.
What are the side effects of the HPV vaccine?
Common side effects include swelling, redness, itching and pain at the injection site, headache, fever and nausea. Hives are rare but possible. Very rarely, you may experience difficulty breathing.
How many jabs are needed?
In Singapore, the HPV vaccine is given in three doses, at an interval of 0, 2 and 6 months.
How long does it last for?
Studies have already shown that the vaccine protects against HPV infection for at least 10 years, although experts expect protection to last for much longer.
However as the HPV vaccine does not protect against all types that can cause cervical cancer, regular screenings are still vital for women over 25.
