All You Need To *Know About Gardasil*

Gardasil is a vaccine that protects against certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV).

Types of Gardasil Vaccines

The different types include the following:

  • 1. Gardasil (quadrivalent):

    Protects against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18.

  • 2. Gardasil 9 (nonavalent):

    Protects against nine HPV types: 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58.

Benefits

  • 1. Prevention of cervical cancer:

    Gardasil vaccines can help prevent cervical cancer caused by HPV types 16 and 18.

  • 2. Prevention of other HPV-related diseases:

    Gardasil vaccines can also help prevent other HPV-related diseases, such as genital warts, anal cancer, and oropharyngeal cancer.

Mechanism of Action

  • 1. Virus-like particles (VLPs):

    Gardasil contains VLPs that mimic the structure of HPV, but are non-infectious.

  • 2. Immune response:

    When the vaccine is administered, the VLPs stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies and immune cells that recognize and target HPV.

  • 3. Neutralization:

    The antibodies produced in response to the vaccine can neutralize HPV, preventing it from entering cells and causing infection.

Protection

  • 1. Prevention of infection:

    Gardasil helps prevent infection with the targeted HPV types.

  • 2. Prevention of disease:

    By preventing infection, the vaccine also helps prevent HPV-related diseases, such as cervical cancer and genital warts.

Target Population

  • 1. Recommended for adolescents and young adults:

    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend HPV vaccination for adolescents and young adults, typically starting at age 11 or 12.

  • 2. Catch-up vaccination:

    Catch-up vaccination is recommended for individuals who did not receive the vaccine series at the recommended age

Administration

Gardasil is administered through:

  • 1. Intramuscular injection:

    Gardasil vaccines are administered via intramuscular injection.

  • 2. Dosing schedule:

    The dosing schedule for Gardasil vaccines varies depending on the age of the individual and the specific vaccine used

Gardasil (Quadrivalent) and Gardasil 9 (Nonavalent)
  • 1. Ages 9 - 14 years:

    Two doses, 6-12 months apart.

  • 2. Ages 15 - 45 years: :

    Three doses, with the second dose given 1-2 months after the first dose, and the third dose given 6 months after the first dose

Special Considerations

  • 1. Immunocompromised individuals:

    Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or taking immunosuppressive medications, may require a three-dose schedule, regardless of age.

  • 2. Catch-up vaccination:

    Individuals who start the vaccine series at an older age may require a three-dose schedule.

It’s essential to follow the recommended dosing schedule to ensure optimal protection against HPV-related diseases. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Gardasil vaccines have been shown to be safe and effective in preventing HPV-related diseases

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