About the HPV Vaccine
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). There are several HPV types that can lead to cervical, vaginal, throat, or other types of cancer and genital warts.
HPV is the most common STI, infecting about 80 percent of unvaccinated, sexually active adults. Since the infection is so common, experts recommend the HPV vaccine for young adults. HPV Vaccines can prevent the growth of cancerous cells. The HPV vaccine is commonly administered to women aged 11-12 to prevent the abnormal growth of cancerous cells in the cervix. The HPV vaccine is usually given in a three (3) dose series. The second dose is administered 1 or 2 months after the first, and the final dose 6 months after the first vaccination. Multiple doses improve the effectiveness of the vaccine.
HPV Vaccine Side Effects & Symptoms
The HPV vaccine may cause mild side effects that are usually normal. But sometimes, a more serious vaccine injury, like Guillain-Barré syndrome, can occur. If you’re experiencing an HPV vaccine Injury, you may be eligible for compensation from the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program.
While most people who receive the HPV vaccine experience no significant side effects, some people may experience mild to moderate side effects, including:
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Nausea
These side effects are usually mild and go away within a few days.
In rare cases, more serious side effects from the HPV vaccine may occur. These can include:
- Allergic reactions & Anaphylaxis: In some cases, people may have an allergic reaction to the HPV vaccine. Symptoms may include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, throat, or tongue.
- Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS): GBS is a rare neurological disorder that can cause muscle weakness, paralysis, and in severe cases, respiratory failure. While GBS is a rare side effect of the HPV vaccine, it has been reported in some cases.
- SIRVA: SIRVA stands for Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration, and it's a condition that can occur after receiving a vaccine, including the HPV vaccine. SIRVA happens when the vaccine is injected too high or too deep into the shoulder, which can cause damage to the shoulder joint, muscles, or nerves. Symptoms of SIRVA can include pain, stiffness, weakness, and limited range of motion in the affected shoulder.
Signs of an HPV Shot Injury
Although rare, injuries caused by the HPV vaccine can and do occur. It's important to recognize and receive care for your vaccine injury.
Mild reactions to the HPV vaccine include pain in the injection site, joint pain, headaches, or fatigue. However, more serious adverse events to the HPV vaccine are sometimes reported, including:
- Severe Allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing
- Syncope (temporary loss of consciousness)
- Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS)
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Transverse myelitis (inflammation of the spinal cord)
- Motor neuron disease
- Venous thromboembolic events (VTEs or blood clots)
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
- Autoimmune disease or autoimmune disorders
Vaccines are crucial for preventing the spread of harmful diseases. But sometimes, vaccines cause an adverse reaction or injury.
The benefits of receiving the vaccine for the Human papilloma virus outweighs the potential risks. But if you did happen to experience an HPV vaccine injury, or worse, your child did – you may be eligible for compensation. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the legal process.
