Question
What is the HPV vaccination and is there any research into it it’s impact on people with ME/CFS?
Answer
The human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine provides protection against a virus that causes genital infections and a number of cancers including mouth, cervical, vaginal and vulval cancer. So it's a very important advance in the prevention of cancer.
The vaccine is normally given to children aged 12 to 13 as well as older age groups who are at increased risk of developing genital cancers.
The most common side effects are mild and don't normally last very long. These can include:
- swelling or pain where the injection was given
- headache
- high temperature
- dizziness
- feeling sick
- tiredness
Although there is sound evidence that a number of commonly used vaccines can occasionally trigger ME/CFS, and sometimes exacerbate ME/CFS symptoms, we have not received any recent feedback in relation to this vaccine either triggering ME/CFS, or causing a significant exacerbation of existing ME/CFS symptoms.
However, a small number of cases have been reported where HPV has been linked to the development of ME/CFS or a post viral fatigue syndrome. In this case, the 2012 MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Authority) review of HPV vaccine safety concluded that there was no causal link. See pages 18-19 in this report: MHRA HPV Information
The new report from Cochrane concluded that there was no link to either ME/CFS and PoTS.
In conclusion, HPV vaccine helps to prevent several types of cancer and has a good safety record. All the research and patient evidence indicates that vaccination is well worth considering if a young person has ME/CFS. However, as with any vaccine, it is best avoided if you are feeling more unwell than usual and have any infective or flu like symptoms.
More Information:
- NHS website information on HPV vaccine: NHS Information: HPV
- Cochrane Review: Benefits and risks of human papillomavirus vaccines for preventing cervical cancer and other diseases
- MEA Leaflet: Immunisations as Possible Triggers
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MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
We recommend that the medical information is discussed with your doctor. It is not intended to be a substitute for personalised medical advice or treatment. You should consult your doctor whenever a new symptom arises, or an existing symptom worsens. It is important to obtain medical advice that considers other causes and possible treatments. Do not assume that new or worsened symptoms are solely because of ME/CFS or Long Covid.