Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are prevalent all over the world and Nepal is not an exception. Most of these have even been associated with adverse outcome and increased susceptibility to HIV infection as well as cervical cancer, in addition to the discomfort caused by the inflammation of the genital tract. However, vaccines against these infections have not yet been developed. But HepatitisB and Human Papilloma Virus are exceptions: one can be immune to these infections by getting the prescribed doses of vaccination.
Many are aware of Hepatitis B infection and vaccination against it thanks to the various awareness campaigns regarding it. “Vaccination against Hepatitis B is even in the national programme of immunisation and given along with DPT at six, 10 and 14 weeks after birth,” informs Dr Alish Prajapati, medical officer at Maiti Nepal. However, only a very few people know about Human Papilloma Virus and the vaccine available against it.
Hepatitis B
What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a potentially serious disease attacking one’s liver, and is transmitted through interpersonal exchange of bodily fluids, unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex, infected mother to an unborn child, use of infected needles, and receiving of contaminated blood and tissues and/or organs.
How can we prevent Hepatitis B?
The best way to prevent the contraction of Hepatitis B is to get a Hepatitis vaccination. It is especially important to vaccinate newborns and infants. If vaccinated properly, you are protected for life against the disease. In order to prevent contraction of Hepatitis B, abstain from sex with infected partners. It is also important to minimise the number of sexual partners that you have. Though condoms have not been proven to safeguard against Hepatitis B, their proper use may reduce the risk of infection. Avoid sharing razors, toothbrushes and other personal items with others. Check into all health practices before you get a tattoo or piercing. If you are a health or medical worker, ensure you follow the proper safety procedures when handling potentially infectious materials. If you already have Hepatitis B or have had it in the past, do not donate blood, tissues or organs.
How effective is the vaccine?
After three properly administered doses of vaccine, at least nine out of 10 healthy young adults and more than nine out of 10 infants, children, and adolescents develop protective antibodies and subsequent immunity to Hepatitis B infection.
Hepatitis B vaccines are available in all health clinics and hospitals.
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)
What is HPV Infection?
Genital Human Papilloma virus (also called HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. There are more than 40 HPV types that can infect the genital areas of males and females. These HPV types can also infect the mouth and throat. Most people who become infected with HPV do not even know they have it. Most people with HPV do not develop symptoms or health problems from it. In 90 percent of cases, the body’s immune system clears HPV naturally within two years.
However, certain types of HPV can cause genital warts in men and women. Other HPV types can cause cervical cancer. These types can also cause other less common but serious cancers including cancers of the vulva, vagina, penis, anus, and head and neck (tongue, tonsils and throat).
How can we prevent HPV infection?
Vaccines can protect against some of the most common types of HPV.
Who should take the HPV vaccine?
Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (www.cdc.gov) recommend the HPV vaccine for all girls aged 11 and 12 years. The recommendation also allows for the vaccination to begin at age nine. It is also recommended for females aged 13 through 26 years who have not been previously vaccinated or who have not completed the full series of shots.
However, anyone who has ever had a life-threatening allergic reaction to yeast, to any other component of HPV vaccine, or to a previous dose of HPV vaccine, should not get the vaccine. Consult your doctor if the person getting the vaccine has any severe allergies. Pregnant women should not take the vaccine. The vaccine appears to be safe for both the mother and the unborn baby, but it is still being studied. As for people who are mildly ill when the shot is scheduled, they can still take HPV vaccine. But people with moderate or severe illnesses should wait until they recover.
How and when is the vaccine administered?
The vaccine is given in a series of three injections over a six-month period. The second and third doses should be given after two and six months of the first dose. HPV vaccine may be given at the same time as other vaccines.
How effective is it?
This vaccine is highly effective in preventing HPV in young women who have not been previously exposed to HPV, i.e. before their first sexual contact. This vaccine targets HPV types that cause up to 70 percent of all cervical cancers and about 90 percent of genital warts. The vaccine will not treat existing HPV infections or their complications.