Can People with Hepatitis B Safely Receive the HPV Vaccine?

Can individuals with hepatitis B receive the HPV vaccine?

Hello, I have hepatitis B, but my liver function and indices are normal.
I would like to receive the HPV vaccine, but I'm concerned whether it might trigger an acute hepatitis B flare.
I've read reports that the use of steroids and immunosuppressants can induce hepatitis B inflammation.
Is there a similar concern with receiving the vaccine?

Xiao Liu, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/20

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine

Hello! If you are a carrier of hepatitis B, please undergo regular follow-up examinations.
You may consult your attending physician about your current liver condition; if it is healthy, you should be eligible for vaccination.
Below are the contraindications for receiving the HPV vaccine for your reference.
A physician's assessment is required before vaccination, and if you are not suitable, the doctor will advise you accordingly.

"Who should not receive the HPV vaccine? (1) Individuals who have experienced allergic reactions after receiving the HPV vaccine.
(2) Pregnant individuals (so far, there have been no adverse pregnancy events reported for mothers or fetuses due to the HPV vaccine).
(3) Individuals planning to become pregnant (pregnancy should be avoided for six months following vaccination).
(4) Individuals with a history of specific medical conditions (such as bleeding disorders, immune dysfunction, or those currently taking immunosuppressive medications).
(5) Individuals who have a fever or signs of infection on the day of vaccination, or those who are currently taking medication should inform their doctor for assessment prior to vaccination." (Excerpt from https://www.hpa.gov.tw/Pages/List.aspx?nodeid=1799#list24)

Reply Date: 2020/09/20

More Info

Yes, individuals who are healthy carriers of Hepatitis B can generally receive the HPV vaccine safely. It is important to note that the HPV vaccine is not known to trigger acute Hepatitis B flare-ups. However, as with any medical decision, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider to assess your specific health status and any potential risks.

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver and can lead to chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis and liver cancer. Healthy carriers of Hepatitis B typically have normal liver function tests and do not exhibit symptoms of liver disease. If your liver function is normal, this is a positive indicator that your liver is managing the virus effectively.

The concern regarding acute Hepatitis B flare-ups is more commonly associated with the use of immunosuppressive therapies, such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressants, which can weaken the immune system and potentially lead to reactivation of the virus. Vaccines, on the other hand, are designed to stimulate the immune system to provide protection against specific diseases without significantly compromising immune function. Therefore, receiving the HPV vaccine should not pose the same risks as immunosuppressive treatments.

It is also essential to keep in mind that the HPV vaccine is recommended for individuals up to age 26, and it can help prevent several types of cancers caused by the human papillomavirus. The vaccine is particularly important for those who may be at risk of HPV-related diseases, including cervical cancer.

Before proceeding with vaccination, it is advisable to discuss your Hepatitis B status with your healthcare provider. They may recommend regular monitoring of your liver function and viral load, especially if you are considering any new vaccinations or treatments. This proactive approach ensures that any changes in your health status can be addressed promptly.

In summary, if you are a healthy carrier of Hepatitis B with normal liver function, you should be able to receive the HPV vaccine without significant concerns about triggering an acute Hepatitis B flare-up. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that you are making informed decisions about your health. Regular follow-ups and monitoring will help manage your Hepatitis B status effectively while allowing you to benefit from preventive measures like the HPV vaccine.

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