Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a virus commonly found sexually transmitted. This virus can cause genital warts and some cancers. There are more than 100 strains and approximately 40 strains can be sexually transmitted, being categorized as follows:
- • High-risk HPV strains includes 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58 which causes cancer.
- • Low-risk HPV strains includes 6 and 11 which causes genital warts.
HPV infection is usually asymptomatic but can develop to genital warts depending on the size, number and where it is infected. It can also develop to precancerous lesion and to cervical, anal and vaginal cancers.
Transmission
- • Vaginal, anal and oral sex
- • Contact with sex toys containing the virus
Treatment
- • Genital warts can go away without treatment within 1-2 years
- • In case of symptoms shown, treatment can be done by topical medication or by infrared or laser surgery. It is recommended to bring your sexual partners to testing and treatment.
- • For cancer-concerning cases, treatment must be prescribed by a specialized doctor.
Prevention
- • Use condom when having sex
- • HPV Vaccines
- • Regular check-ups for HPV infection
HPV Vaccination
| Types | Genitial Wart Protection | Cancer Protection | Price |
| 2-strain vaccines (16, 18) | Not applicable | 70% protection (strain 16, 18) | N/A |
| 4-strain vaccines (6, 11, 16,18) | 90% protection (strain 6, 11) | 70% protection (strain 16, 18) | 2,500 THB per dose |
| 9-strain vaccines (6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58) | 90% protection (strain 6, 11) | 80% protection (strain 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58) | 6,000 THB per dose |
Eligible ages for vaccines
- • 9–26 years: recommended for all genders
- • 27-45 years: considered case by case
- • Less than 9 or over 45 years: not recommended
Number of injections
- • Less than 15 years, 2 injections at month 0 and 6-12
- • Over 15 years, 3 injections at month 0, 1-2 and 6
- • For people with immune system disorders regardless of age, 3 injections at month 0, 1-2 and 6
