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General health information

HPV vaccination

HPV vaccines protect against important types of human papillomavirus. They work best before someone encounters these virus types. They are intended to help prevent infections and, later, some cancers and warts. They do not treat an existing HPV infection or an abnormal cervical screening result. Eligibility and the number of doses depend on the local vaccination programme, age and any relevant medical circumstances.

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  • HPV vaccination aims to prevent infection with certain HPV types. This helps reduce the risk of conditions including cervical cancer, anal cancer, some mouth and throat cancers, and genital warts.
  • The vaccine works best before exposure to the virus. That is why vaccination is often offered at a young age, before many people become sexually active.
  • The vaccine prevents disease; it does not treat it. It does not treat an existing infection, a positive HPV test or warts or abnormal cells that are already present.
  • The schedule varies with age, vaccine type and local guidance. Follow your own region's programme rather than isolated advice online.
  • Screening remains important after vaccination when locally recommended, because the vaccine does not protect against every HPV type.

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Further reading

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C
Cervical cancerCervical cancer develops in the lower part of the womb that opens into the vagina. Persistent infection with certain types of HPV is the main cause; screening can detect abnormal cells before they become cancer.
P
Pneumococcal vaccinationPneumococcal vaccines protect against serious disease caused by pneumococci, such as pneumonia, sepsis and meningitis. The appropriate vaccine and repeat doses depend on age, previous vaccinations, immune function and local vaccination policy in Curaçao.
T
Treatments of the cervixIf screening shows abnormal cells on the cervix, further tests and treatment when needed can prevent them becoming cancer. An abnormal result does not automatically mean you have cancer.