Transmission and vaccination: everything you need to know about papillomavirus

Human papillomavirus, also known as HPV, is a very common virus that is mainly transmitted through sexual intercourse. In most cases, it causes no symptoms, but certain types can lead to serious cancers. Vaccination, recommended between the ages of 11 and 14 and possible up to the age of 26, prevents infection and greatly reduces the risk of long-term complications. MonacoSanté keeps you informed. 

A silent and dangerous virus

Around 90% of people are exposed to HPV during their lifetime. "This virus therefore spreads among most of the population. Its transmission is well known: it is mainly spread through sexual intercourse, but not exclusively. Traces of papillomavirus have also been found on the mucous membranes of the fingers and under the fingernails", explains Dr Thomas Althaus, public health inspector at the Department of Health Affairs. For several years, this virus has been a cause for concern among the medical community due to its long-term consequences. "During our lifetime, many of us will inevitably be exposed to it. This would not be a problem if papillomavirus were a benign virus. Unfortunately, certain types—notably HPV 16 and 18, and other types with a high risk of cancer, — can alter our cells and cause cancer", he explains. Extremely discreet, the papillomavirus can evolve for years, without causing any symptoms, before leading to the formation of malignant tumours. In women, it is mainly responsible for cervical cancer. In men, it can affect the ENT area, particularly the throat. But it can also affect the rectum and anus. “It is not so much the infection itself that is worrying as its potential to cause tumours, in both men and women. Neither gender is spared”, emphasises the healthcare professional. “It is a silent epidemic, acting like a time bomb and often manifesting itself in adulthood. By the time cancer develops, it is already too late to prevent the disease. In women, only gynaecological smears and colposcopies can detect certain precancerous lesions. Before that, there are no warning symptoms” adds Dr Thomas Althaus.

Why get vaccinated?

The arrival of the first vaccines against human papillomavirus, some twenty years ago demonstrated their effectiveness, particularly in young people. A vaccine that doctor describe as “revolutionary and anti-cancer’. ‘It does not prevent exposure to the virus, but it greatly reduces the risk of developing precancerous lesions and associated cancers. It is not a magic shield: the virus can still enter the body, but it will no longer be able to develop or cause lesions”, he explains. In Monaco vaccination is recommended between the ages of 11 and 14, before the onset of sexual activity. Two doses are administered six months apart. It is still possible to be vaccinated up to the age of 26, but three doses are required. The vaccine also has an excellent safety profile. “It combines very high efficacy against cancer with minimal side effects. It is based on technologies that have been proven for over 50 years, not on messenger RNA”. In November 2024, a comprehensive analysis by the Cochrane scientific journal, covering 225 studies and approximately 132 million participants — the majority of whom were young people aged 11 to 14 confirmed the vaccine's efficacy. As a result, Australia implemented a vaccination programme in 2007 with very high coverage and plans to eliminate cervical cancer by 2035. The same is true for Scotland, Finland and Portugal, which has achieved 90% vaccination coverage.

False information about the vaccine

One of the main challenges for healthcare professionals remains the fight against misinformation, particularly on social media. “Some rumours claim that the vaccine causes infertility, autoimmune diseases, chronic conditions and even death. Others claim that it is pointless to vaccinate children because it is a sexually transmitted infection”, says Dr Althaus. Pedagogically, he recalls how this injection works: “The body is exposed to a viral mimicry, which imitates an infection and triggers the production of antibodies targeting the types of HPV responsible for cancer. In concrete terms, vaccination prevents the virus from exerting its effects. When a vaccinated person is exposed to HPV, their body quickly eliminates it”.

Explaining and convincing parents

Twice a year, in April and November, teams from the Department of Health Affairs visit all secondary schools in the Principality to raise awareness and vaccinate Year 7 pupils. Information meetings are systematically organised in advance for parents, whose consent is required. “So it is they who need to be informed and reassured”, emphasises the doctor. The teams emphasise the vaccine's effectiveness, safety and long-term benefits. “The ideal age for vaccination is between 11 and 14, as most young people have not yet been exposed to the virus. Anyone vaccinated at this age – whether male or female – will not develop HPV-related cancer and will not transmit the virus”, he explains. In the Principality, the vaccine is readily available at pharmacies, GPs and gynaecologists. It is fully covered by the social security system.