Uncovering truth and busting common myths about the HPV vaccine

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections globally. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 80 per cent of sexually active individuals will contract HPV at some point. In Kenya, the virus remains a silent but deadly threat, particularly to women’s health.

There are over 100 types of HPV, with around 14 considered high-risk. These can lead to serious health complications, especially cervical cancer. According to GLOBOCAN 2022, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among Kenyan women and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths.

HPV is spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact and can infect the genitals, mouth, and throat. While many infections clear on their own, persistent high-risk strains particularly types 16 and 18 cause over 70 per cent of cervical cancer cases. Other complications include anal, penile, and throat cancers.

Common Myths and Facts

Myth 1: The HPV vaccine causes infertility

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This is one of the most persistent misconceptions.

“There were no proven cases of adverse vaccine effects during the initial rollout, either during the pilot in Kitui or during the 2019 national launch. The safety profile has always been solid," said Benda Kithaka, Executive Director of KILELE Health Association.

WHO, the Centers for Diseases and Control and Prevention (CDC), and Kenya’s Pharmacy and Poisons Board confirm no link between the vaccine and infertility. In fact, it protects reproductive health by preventing HPV-related cancers.

Myth 2: The HPV vaccine encourages promiscuity

Some critics argue that vaccinating girls against a sexually transmitted infection could promote early sexual activity. Sheikh Amani Hamisi of the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM) addressed this directly:

“We must not allow ignorance to cost lives. Islam encourages the preservation of life.”

There is no evidence the vaccine affects sexual behaviour. It is a preventative measure, like a tetanus or measles shot.

Myth 3: Only girls need the HPV vaccine

Although Kenya currently targets girls aged 10 to 14, WHO and CDC also recommend vaccinating boys. Boys can carry and transmit HPV and are at risk of related cancers.

“If vaccines work, then let our girls and boys be vaccinated,” said Benda.

Prevention and early detection

The vaccine is most effective before exposure to the virus, which is why it’s given before sexual debut, usually between ages 10 and 14. At this age, the immune system responds more effectively, often requiring just two doses instead of three.

HPV infections are often symptomless, which makes them especially dangerous. When symptoms do appear, they can include genital warts, abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, or pain during intercourse, often mistaken for other conditions, delaying diagnosis.

Risk factors for HPV include early sexual activity, multiple partners, unprotected sex, smoking, weakened immunity (such as from HIV), and high parity. WHO also notes that poor genital hygiene and co-infections with other STIs can increase vulnerability.

Prevention is multi-pronged. Vaccination is key, and WHO recommends immunising girls and boys aged 9 to 14. Kenya’s school-based and community outreach programme, supported by Gavi, began in 2019 but has faced hurdles including misinformation, low second-dose uptake, and regional inequalities.

Safe sex practices, such as condom use, also reduce transmission. Routine screening via Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA), Pap smears, or HPV DNA tests detects early signs of cervical changes. WHO and the Ministry of Health advise screening at least twice, at ages 35 and 45.

Treatment varies with disease progression. Pre-cancerous lesions can be treated using cryotherapy, laser therapy, or LEEP. Invasive cancer may require surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy.
“Screening and treatment should go hand in hand, prevention must never stop at awareness alone,” said Benda.

Support is vital, especially for survivors like Judy Wanyoike, who lost her fertility due to Stage 2B cervical cancer.
“It shouldn’t take death or disaster to push us to act,” said Judy. “If I had been screened earlier, maybe I wouldn’t have had to go through all that.” She now advocates for early screening and vaccination.

The HPV vaccine is safe, effective, and life-saving. As Kenya works toward WHO’s 90-70-90 targets, vaccinating 90 per cent of girls by age 15, screening 70 per cent of women by 35 and again at 45, and treating 90 per cent of cervical disease, it’s time to set myths aside.