What is the 9-valent vaccine for?
Jul 22, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
The 9-valent HPV vaccine is used to prevent cervical cancer caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and can prevent over 90% of cervical cancer cases. HPV—human papillomavirus—is highly prevalent; approximately 90% of women who have had sexual intercourse may become infected with HPV. While most HPV infections are cleared spontaneously by the body, persistent infection with certain high-risk HPV types may progress to cervical cancer.
Currently, the HPV vaccines widely used internationally are bivalent, quadrivalent, and nonavalent. The term “valent” refers to the number of HPV subtypes covered by the vaccine—the higher the valence, the broader the spectrum of virus types protected against. So, what exactly does the nonavalent HPV vaccine do? Below, we address this question.
What is the nonavalent HPV vaccine for?
The nonavalent HPV vaccine prevents cervical cancer caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and can prevent over 90% of cervical cancer cases. HPV—human papillomavirus—is highly prevalent; approximately 90% of women with a history of sexual activity will be infected with HPV at some point in their lives. While most HPV infections clear spontaneously, persistent infection with certain high-risk HPV types may progress to cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine offers optimal protection for women who have not yet initiated sexual activity. Its efficacy diminishes significantly if administered after HPV infection has occurred, and its preventive effect also declines with increasing age. Therefore, earlier vaccination is strongly recommended.
Knowledge Extension: Important Considerations for the Nonavalent HPV Vaccine
1. Individuals who have experienced a severe allergic reaction to any component of the HPV vaccine—including proteins or yeast—or to a previous dose of the vaccine should not receive further doses.
2. Current evidence does not indicate that the HPV vaccine increases the risk of fetal malformations. However, due to insufficient large-scale clinical data, vaccination during pregnancy is not recommended. If pregnancy is discovered after initiating vaccination, termination of pregnancy is unnecessary; instead, completion of the remaining doses should be postponed until after delivery.
The above provides an overview of the purpose and function of the nonavalent HPV vaccine. We hope this information is helpful to you.
