HPV Vaccine: Everything You Need To Know, Age, Doses, Who Should Avoid

HPV vaccine can protect you from an Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection, a group of over 200 related viruses. The vaccine offers defence against cervical cancer, caused due to persistent infection with the HPV. Earlier on February 28, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched HPV Vaccination Programme for the prevention of cervical cancer among women, according to PIB Headquarters. Soon after the launch, several states and union territories held their own HPV vaccination launch events on February 28, 2026. The vaccine will be available free of cost at government facilities for nearly 1.15 crore girls aged 15 years across states and UTs.

According to PIB Headquarters, “Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women globally, with around 660,000 new cases and around 350,000 deaths in 2022. Cervical cancer is caused by persistent infection with the Human Papillomavirus. Cervical cancer disproportionately affects younger women — 20% of children who lose their mother to cancer do so due to cervical cancer.”

It is worth mentioning that in India it is the second most common cancer among women with more than 1,20,000 new cases and approximately 80,000 deaths annually, according to GLOBOCAN 2022 data. Meanwhile, India accounts for 25% of global cervical cancer deaths. One in every five women globally who suffers from cervical cancer is from India. India ranks fourth globally in cervical cancer-related morbidity.

WHO On HPV

According to World Health Organisation, “Currently there are six licensed HPV vaccines: three bivalent, two quadrivalent, and one nonavalent vaccine. All vaccines are highly efficacious in preventing infection with virus types 16 and 18, which are together responsible for approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases globally. The vaccines are also highly efficacious in preventing precancerous cervical lesions caused by these virus types. The quadrivalent vaccine is also highly efficacious in preventing anogenital warts, a common genital disease which is virtually always caused by infection with HPV types 6 and 11. The nonavalent provides additional protection against HPV types 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58. Data from clinical trials and initial post-marketing surveillance conducted in several continents show HPV vaccines to be safe.”

What Is HPV?

HPV is a sexually transmitted infection also known as STI that can spread via skin-to-skin contact. There are approximately 40 different kinds of HPV that can spread through sex. It has emerged so common that nearly 80% of sexually active individuals will suffer from HPV infection at some point of time. Healthy immune systems can ward off the virus. However, there are some HPV infections that that do not go away and some can lead to cancer.

It is worth noting that most cervical cancer and cancers impacting genitals are linked with an HPV infection. HPV infections can also cause genital warts. Therefore, it is of paramount significance to get HPV vaccine as it is a safe and crucial way to prevent infections if you get exposed.  

According to National Library of Medicine, "Cervical cancer is ranked as the most frequent cancer in women in India. India has a population of approximately 365.71 million women above 15 years of age, who are at risk of developing cervical cancer." 

Who Will Be Eligible For HPV?

• The vaccine has been recommended for 9 to 45 age group

• For both males and females

Who Should Not Get HPV Vaccine?

• Pregnant Women

• Individuals suffering from some moderate or severe diseases should wait till full recovery

• Known allergy to yeast or prior allergic reaction to any vaccination

Common Side Effects of HPV Vaccine

HPV vaccine is safe but you may observe some mild side effects after getting vaccinated. Some common side effects include:

• Soreness, swelling, redness at the injection spot

• Headache

• Fatigue

• Fever

• Nausea

• Dizziness

 HPV Vaccine Schedule In India

• You will get the vaccine in a series of shots. For the age group of 9 to 14 years, there will be 2 shots at the gap of 6 months.  

• For the age group of 14 to 45 years, there will be 3 shots at the gap of 0, 2, and 6 months.

• For the age group of 27 to 45 years, you may get vaccinated after consultation with your healthcare professional.  

 Leading Vaccine Brands Available In India

There are three leading brands of HPV vaccines available in India namely Cervavac, Gardasil, and Cervarix. A single dose of Gardasil can protect from HPV types 16 and 18 (that can lead to cervical cancer) and types 6 and 11. The vaccine will be administered to girls at the age of 14. Single dose of Gardasil-4 offers 93% to 100% efficacy against HPV virus that can cause cervical cancer.  

Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health or treatment options.