HPV or human papillomavirus is a very common virus. There are around 100 types of HPV which affect various parts of the body. About 30 varieties of HPV can affect the genitals — including the vagina, vulva, cervix, penis and scrotum. HPV is also known to affect the rectum and anus. About 14 types among these are considered ‘high risk,’ for leading to cervical cancer. HPV vaccination is available at Touchwood Pharmacy based in Streatham and is the best solution against this virus.
How common is HPV?
HPV strain, which affects the genitals is quite common. About 80% of sexually active people including both men and women are infected with HPV at some point in their lives, but most of them go undiagnosed for a very long time.
How do you get infected with human papillomavirus (HPV)?
Genital HPV usually spreads through direct contact with someone who has HPV infection. Types of contact include oral, vaginal, and anal sex. Some types of HPV cause genital warts, which are hard and rough lumps which grow around the skin. A sexually active person can get both HPV and genital warts. In women, genital warts usually appear in the following parts of the body:
- Vulva
- In or around the vagina
- In or around the anus
- On the cervix
- In the groin area
What are the symptoms of HPV?
In most cases, HPV infection causes no symptoms. If they occur, then the most common symptom is warts in the genital region. Signs of infection may take weeks, months, or even years to appear after the person has been infected with the virus.
The HPV vaccine protects you against specific types of HPV that can lead to cancer or genital warts. They are also by the brand name Gardasil 9. The HPV vaccine protects against:
- HPV types 16 & 18 — the 2 strains that cause 80% of cervical cancer cases.
- HPV types 6 & 11, that cause 90% of genital warts cases.
- Another 5 types of HPV, namely types 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58 can lead to cancer of the cervix, anus, penis, vulva/vagina, or throat.
The HPV Vaccination is administered in Touchwood Pharmacy if you stay in or around Ramsgate. Touchwood Pharmacy recommends that all people ages 9 to 45 can get the HPV vaccine to get protection against genital warts and/or cancers caused by HPV. We are leading pharmacy in the UK with a team of expert doctors and friendly staff. We not only offer travel vaccination but also thoroughly guide and offer consultation to patients in need.
