HPV vaccination: Your questions about protection and prevention in Austria

HPV vaccination: Your questions about protection and prevention in Austria

Everyone has heard of HPV before, but what does that mean specifically? HPV is the short form for humane papilloma viruses, a family of viruses who are responsible for some health problems. A large part of people will be infected with these viruses at some point in their lives, often without knowing it. The dangerous thing is that in many cases they are transferred via sexual contacts and can lead to serious illnesses.

HPV can cause genital warts that are uncomfortable, but are usually not dangerous. However, a greater risk is the possibility that certain HPV types can cause cancer precursors or even cancer, in particular cervical cancer in women. But men can also be affected, since HPV is also involved in the development of anal cancer and head-neck cancer.

When is the best time for vaccination?

An HPV vaccination is particularly important to protect the body from the most dangerous tribes of the virus. Experts recommend that children and adolescents, especially girls and boys between the ages of 9 and 14, should receive vaccination. It is advised to complete the vaccination series before the first sexual contact to ensure the best possible protection. Vaccination is usually carried out in several doses, whereby the time frame can vary depending on gender and age.

For optimal protection, two to three doses of the HPV vaccination are usually required. Depending on the vaccine used, the recommendations can vary. It is advisable to find out about the right process and the necessary doses from a doctor.

The importance of the HPV vaccination cannot be emphasized enough. Many studies have shown that vaccination can significantly reduce the rate of cervical cancer. Nevertheless, awareness of HPV and the vaccination options is unfortunately not yet as high as it should be. Enlightenment about the risks and the prevention options are therefore urgently necessary to improve the health situation in society.

For more information about HPV and the vaccination, it is advisable to contact medical specialists or to consult trustworthy health portals. Education is the first step towards prevention and combating diseases caused by HPV.