HPV Vaccination and Risks of Re-infection: Key Insights

Q: HPV Vaccination and Risks of Re-infection: Key Insights

Hello： 1) Vaccines provide protection but do not have therapeutic effects. <br>Therefore, receiving the vaccine before being infected with HPV should offer protection against several types; however, some types are not covered. <br>If someone is already infected with HPV and then

Infection Issues: Condylomata Acuminata (Genital Warts)

I was infected with HPV types 6 and 16 in May of last year, and I have completed three doses of the vaccine since then.
(1) After receiving the vaccine, does it mean that I have no protection against types 6 and 16, and is there still a possibility of reinfection? (2) If I have received the vaccine, can I still get infected in areas such as the anal or oral regions? Recently, I had a small injury from wiping too hard after using the restroom, and I'm worried about potentially getting infected in other areas.
(3) Is it necessary for warts to have exposed mucous membranes to cause infection? Can the virus infect if it comes into contact with non-mucosal surfaces? Thank you, doctor.

Qian, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/17

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: 1) Vaccines provide protection but do not have therapeutic effects.
Therefore, receiving the vaccine before being infected with HPV should offer protection against several types; however, some types are not covered.
If someone is already infected with HPV and then receives the vaccine, it has not yet been proven to prevent diseases caused by vaccine and non-vaccine HPV types (as stated in the package insert).
Personally, I believe that the above explanation reflects the current evidence, and perhaps one day there will be evidence suggesting otherwise.
2) There is also the possibility.
3) Certain specific areas of the skin, particularly the perineal, anal, and genital regions.
Wishing you good health.
In addition to vaccination, practicing safe behaviors is also very important.

Reply Date: 2021/05/17

More Info

Understanding HPV Vaccination and Risks of Re-infection: Key Insights
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection that can lead to various health issues, including genital warts and certain types of cancer. Vaccination against HPV has been a significant advancement in public health, providing protection against the most common high-risk and low-risk HPV types. However, questions often arise regarding the effectiveness of the vaccine after infection and the potential for re-infection.
1. Effectiveness of the Vaccine Post-Infection:
After receiving the HPV vaccine, particularly the Gardasil 9, it is important to understand that the vaccine is designed to prevent new infections from the HPV types it covers, including HPV types 6 and 16. However, if you have already been infected with these types before vaccination, the vaccine will not clear the existing infection. Therefore, while the vaccine provides protection against new infections, it does not eliminate the risk of re-infection from the same HPV types if they are already present in your system.
In your case, since you were diagnosed with HPV types 6 and 16 prior to vaccination, the vaccine will not provide protection against these existing infections. However, it may protect you from other HPV types that you have not yet encountered.
2. Risk of Infection in Other Areas:
The HPV vaccine does not eliminate the risk of infection in other anatomical sites, such as the anal or oral regions. HPV can infect various mucosal surfaces, and if you have a small injury or abrasion, such as from wiping too hard, it could theoretically increase the risk of transmission if the virus is present in the area. However, the likelihood of transmission through non-mucosal surfaces (like skin) is significantly lower compared to mucosal contact.
If you are concerned about potential exposure or infection in these areas, it is advisable to maintain good hygiene and consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation if symptoms arise.

3. Transmission of Genital Warts (Condyloma Acuminata):
Genital warts, caused by low-risk HPV types (primarily 6 and 11), can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. While it is more common for the virus to infect mucosal surfaces (like the genital area), it is possible for HPV to be transmitted through contact with non-mucosal skin, especially if there are abrasions or cuts present. Therefore, while the risk is lower, it is not zero.
To reduce the risk of transmission, it is essential to avoid intimate contact when warts are present and to follow safe sex practices, including the use of condoms, which can help reduce the risk of HPV transmission, although they do not provide complete protection.

Conclusion:
In summary, while the HPV vaccine is a powerful tool in preventing new infections, it does not clear existing infections. Therefore, individuals who have been previously infected with HPV types covered by the vaccine should continue to monitor their health and engage in safe practices to minimize the risk of transmission. Regular check-ups and screenings are essential for early detection and management of any HPV-related health issues. If you have further concerns or symptoms, consulting a healthcare professional is highly recommended for personalized advice and management.

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