The virus is extremely contagious and 90% of people get infected at least once with HPV during their lifetime.
HPV is the cause of many cancers, also in men
Most HPV infections (9 out of 10) are mild, go unnoticed or go away by themselves within 2 years. But 10% will last longer and can cause some cancers:
HPV is not just sexually transmitted
You can get HPV by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the virus, even if they do not have signs or symptoms.
However, the HPV virus can also make its way from one person to another just through small skin lesions or mucosae, so a cuddle or a kiss can be enough to pass it on.
HPV vaccination is cancer prevention
Male and/ or female condoms do not give reliable protection.
You can protect your child from these cancers with the HPV vaccine.
HPV vaccination can prevent over 90% of cancers caused by HPV, including anal, vaginal, cervical, and vulval precancers (abnormal cells that can lead to cancer).
At what age do we vaccinate? Why so young?
Research has shown that the vaccination is most protective when given before the first contact with the virus. Kisses and cuddles often start young.
Vaccine: safe and effective
Over 15 years of monitoring have shown that HPV vaccines are very safe and effective. Like with all vaccines, scientists continue to monitor the HPV vaccine.
It is a recommended vaccination within the Swiss vaccination schedule for boys and girls alike. All recommended vaccinations fall under the normal health insurance for reimbursement
Find more information on this website.
Marian Coen and Kenny Mary