Impact of Delayed HPV Vaccine Doses on Effectiveness: Do You Need to Restart?

HPV 9-valent vaccine

On November 11, 2018, I received the first dose of the nine-valent HPV vaccine.
I received the second dose on January 12, 2019, and I planned to get the third dose on June 13, 2019.
However, I later realized that the second and third doses should be spaced four months apart (it takes seven months to complete all three doses).
I delayed the third dose until the fifth month.
Will this affect the vaccine's efficacy? Do I need to restart the vaccination series?

Tiāntiān, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/06

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

On November 11, 2018, I received the first dose of the nine-valent HPV vaccine.
I received the second dose on January 12, 2019, and I planned to get the third dose on June 13, 2019, but I later realized that the second and third doses should be spaced four months apart (it took seven months to complete all three doses).
I delayed the third dose until the fifth month.
Will this affect the vaccine's efficacy? Answer: No, it will not affect the vaccine's efficacy.
Do I need to receive the vaccine again? Answer: No, you do not need to receive it again.

Reply Date: 2019/06/06

More Info

The question of whether delayed doses of the HPV vaccine affect its effectiveness is a common concern among individuals receiving the vaccine. Based on the information provided and current medical guidelines, it is important to understand how the HPV vaccination schedule works and the implications of delaying doses.

The HPV vaccine, particularly the 9-valent HPV vaccine, is designed to protect against various strains of the human papillomavirus that can lead to cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases. The standard vaccination schedule consists of three doses, with specific intervals recommended between each dose. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), the recommended intervals are as follows:
1. The second dose should be administered 4 to 8 weeks after the first dose.

2. The third dose should be administered at least 24 weeks after the first dose and at least 12 weeks after the second dose.

In your case, you received the first dose on November 11, 2018, and the second dose on January 12, 2019. If you plan to receive the third dose on June 13, 2019, this would indeed result in a delay beyond the recommended intervals. However, it is crucial to note that the HPV vaccine is still effective even if the doses are not administered exactly according to the schedule.
Research indicates that while adhering to the recommended schedule is ideal for optimal immune response, receiving the doses within a reasonable timeframe still provides significant protection. The immune system can still mount a response even if there is a delay, and studies have shown that the effectiveness of the vaccine is not completely diminished by such delays. In fact, the CDC states that as long as the series is completed, the vaccine will still confer protection against HPV-related diseases.

Regarding the need to restart the vaccination series, the answer is generally no. If you have received the first two doses, you do not need to restart the entire series, even if there is a gap in time before receiving the third dose. It is recommended to complete the series as soon as possible, but the previous doses will still contribute to your immunity against HPV.

In summary, while it is preferable to follow the recommended vaccination schedule, delays in receiving the HPV vaccine doses do not negate the effectiveness of the vaccine. You should proceed with receiving the third dose as planned, and there is no need to restart the entire series. Completing the vaccination series is essential for ensuring adequate protection against HPV-related diseases. If you have any further questions or concerns, it is always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

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