HPV Vaccination in Singapore: Guide for Parents & Adults

Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is a common virus that can affect both females and males.

Many HPV infections clear on their own. However, some HPV types can cause health problems over time, including cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers. Other HPV types can cause genital warts.

HPV vaccination is a preventive health measure. It helps protect against selected HPV types covered by the vaccine. It does not treat an existing HPV infection, abnormal cervical screening result or genital warts.

In Singapore, HPV vaccination is available through national programmes and private healthcare providers. The most suitable option may depend on age, gender, vaccination history, eligibility, health profile and doctor’s advice.

If you are considering HPV vaccination for yourself or your child, speaking with a doctor can help you understand your options clearly.

HPV stands for human papillomavirus. It refers to a group of viruses that can infect the skin and lining of certain parts of the body.

Some HPV types are considered high-risk because they are linked to cancers such as cervical cancer. Other types are considered low-risk but may still cause conditions such as genital warts.

HPV is common, and many people may not know they have it because it often has no symptoms.

HPV vaccination helps the body build protection against selected HPV types before exposure.

This is why HPV vaccination is generally more effective when given at a younger age, before a person is likely to be exposed to HPV. However, some adults may still wish to discuss vaccination with a doctor, especially if they were not vaccinated when younger or did not complete the full course.

HPV vaccination does not replace cervical cancer screening. For women, regular cervical screening remains important even after vaccination.

Different HPV vaccines cover different HPV types. In Singapore, the HPV vaccines commonly referenced include HPV2 and HPV9 vaccines.

Both vaccine types have a role in HPV prevention. A doctor can advise which option is suitable based on age, gender, vaccination history, eligibility and individual health needs.

HPV vaccination works best when given before exposure to HPV. This is why vaccination is recommended from the pre-teen years and may be given from age 9.

For parents, it may feel early to think about HPV vaccination. A helpful way to look at it is this: HPV vaccination is not about current sexual activity. It is about helping the body build protection before future exposure becomes possible.

Yes. In Singapore, HPV vaccination is included in the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule for females. The school-based HPV vaccination programme uses Cervarix for eligible female students.

Parents who are considering HPV vaccination outside the school programme, or who wish to understand other available vaccine options, can speak with a doctor.

No. HPV can affect both females and males.

Singapore’s national programme focuses on females because of cervical cancer prevention. However, HPV is also linked to other health conditions that can affect males.

Depending on the vaccine used, HPV vaccination may help protect against selected HPV types linked to certain cancers and genital warts.

Parents considering HPV vaccination for their child can discuss suitability, timing and vaccine options with a doctor.

Parents may wish to ask:

• Is HPV vaccination suitable for my child?
• Which HPV vaccine options are available?
• How many doses are needed?
• What is the recommended schedule?
• Are there any common side effects?
• Are there any reasons to delay vaccination?
• Will my child still need screening in future?

For girls, cervical screening will still be important later in life, even if they have received HPV vaccination.

Some adults may be suitable for HPV vaccination.

In Singapore, the HPV9 vaccine, Gardasil 9, is registered for eligible females and males from 9 through 45 years of age.

For adults, the potential benefit of HPV vaccination may vary. This is because a person may already have been exposed to one or more HPV types. However, vaccination may still help protect against HPV types that the person has not been exposed to, if covered by the vaccine.

A doctor can help assess whether HPV vaccination is suitable based on age, health history, vaccination history and individual risk factors.

Adults may consider speaking with a doctor if they:

• Did not receive HPV vaccination when younger
• Started but did not complete the full vaccine course
• Are unsure of their HPV vaccination history
• Are entering a new relationship
• Want to understand their options for HPV prevention
• Want to take a more proactive approach to preventive health

HPV vaccination does not treat an existing HPV infection, abnormal cervical screening result or genital warts. It is used to help prevent future infection from the HPV types covered by the vaccine.

Yes. HPV vaccination and cervical screening work together.

HPV vaccination helps reduce the risk of infection from selected HPV types. Cervical screening helps detect early cell changes before they become more serious.

Even if you have been vaccinated, regular cervical screening remains important because no HPV vaccine protects against all HPV types or all causes of cervical cancer.

Women in Singapore should follow the recommended cervical screening schedule based on age, sexual history and doctor’s advice.

HMI Medical Centre and HMI OneCare Clinics offer HPV vaccination for eligible individuals, subject to doctor’s assessment.

At HMI Medical Centre (Farrer Park):

3-dose HPV vaccination course using Gardasil 9: $818 nett

At HMI OneCare Clinics (35+ locations islandwide):

3-dose HPV vaccination course using Gardasil 9: $916 nett

During your appointment, the doctor will advise on:

• Whether HPV vaccination is suitable for you or your child
• The recommended dose schedule
• Vaccine options available in Singapore
• Cervical screening, if relevant
• Any questions about HPV prevention

If you are unsure where to start, a consultation can help you understand your options and make an informed decision.

WhatsApp us to book a vaccination appointment at HMI Medical Centre (Farrer Park) or visit your nearest HMI OneCare Clinic to find out more.