What hpv strains do vaccines protect against?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines offer protection against various strains of the virus, primarily those responsible for causing certain types of cancer and genital warts. Different vaccines may cover different strains, but the most common strains targeted by HPV vaccines include:

1. HPV-16: This is the most common high-risk HPV strain, responsible for approximately 50% of cervical cancer cases and a significant proportion of other HPV-related cancers, including vulvar, vaginal, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers.

2. HPV-18: Another high-risk strain associated with approximately 20% of cervical cancer cases and a range of other HPV-related cancers, including vulvar, vaginal, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers.

3. HPV-6: A low-risk strain primarily responsible for causing genital warts.

4. HPV-11: Another low-risk strain also associated with genital warts.

5. HPV-31: A high-risk strain linked to a small percentage of cervical cancer cases and other HPV-related cancers.

6. HPV-33: Another high-risk strain associated with a portion of cervical cancer cases and other HPV-related cancers.

7. HPV-45: A high-risk strain involved in some cases of cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers.

8. HPV-52: A high-risk strain associated with a small number of cervical cancer cases and other HPV-related cancers.

9. HPV-58: A high-risk strain linked to a portion of cervical cancer cases and other HPV-related cancers.

It's important to note that different vaccines may target different combinations of these HPV strains. Some vaccines, such as Gardasil and Gardasil 9, offer protection against a broader range of strains compared to others. Consultation with a healthcare professional or referring to specific vaccine information can provide details on the exact strains covered by a particular HPV vaccine.