Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

 Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted disease worldwide, with increasing prevalence in Israel. There are numerous strains of HPV, with some causing medical issues such as genital warts or cancer.

How Is HPV Transmitted?

HPV can be transmitted through genital, anal and/or oral sexual contact with an infected individual, whether male or female, as the virus spreads through skin-to-skin contact. Therefore, using condoms alone is not sufficient protection against HPV. It is also possible to contract HPV even when the partner is asymptomatic. Often, symptoms may only develop many years after sexual contact with the infected person, making it challenging to identify the initial point of transmission.

How Common Is HPV?

HPV is so common that a significant portion of sexually active individuals who have not been vaccinated may become infected.

Does HPV Cause Medical Issues?

In many cases, HPV may resolve on its own without causing any medical problems. However, when it does not clear naturally, it can lead to the formation of viral warts on the genital organs and various types of cancer. The virus affects both men and women and is dangerous for both genders.

• Genital Warts – Genital warts appear as small protrusions or clusters of growths in the genital area. They can be small or large, flat or raised, or even cauliflower-shaped. Genital warts are typically diagnosed based on their appearance. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 out of every 100 sexually active adults in the United States has genital warts. The presence of genital warts can cause significant emotional distress to those affected.
• Cervical Cancer – Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide and one of the deadliest.
• Other types of cancer caused by HPV include penile cancer, anal cancer, vaginal cancer, and oropharyngeal cancer.

Is There a Treatment for HPV?

There is no effective treatment against the virus itself. Genital warts can be treated and may grow or recur if left untreated. It is recommended to seek appropriate treatment from a family doctor or a gynecologist.
Pre-cancerous cervical lesions can also be treated to prevent their progression.

Preventing HPV Infection

Safe Sexual Practices

It is recommended to use condoms during any sexual activity that does not involve monogamous partners. It is essential to know that HPV can infect areas not protected by condoms, limiting their effectiveness. Monogamous relationships (between two partners) may significantly reduce the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases.

 HPV Vaccination

In Israel, the Gardasil 9 vaccine is administered (protecting against types 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, 58). It is intended for girls and women ages 9–45, and for boys and men ages 9–26.

It is recommended to get vaccinated before the start of sexual activity.

• In Israel, the vaccine is currently provided within the school health services to 8th-grade students, in two doses given six months apart.
• For those aged 15 and older, three doses are required (4 weeks between the first and second doses, 12 weeks between the second and third).
• Students who were not vaccinated at school may contact their regional health office and receive the vaccine for free until age 18.
• Starting November 2025, the Gardasil HPV vaccine is included in the Government Health Basket for men and women ages 18–26 (inclusive) who have not completed the vaccination series. It will be administered at designated Leumit medical centers, according to the list (in Hebrew). This list may be updated from time to time, and it is recommended to check with the medical center before arriving for vaccination.
• Soldiers may also receive the vaccine during their military service.
• Adults insured by the health funds who are over age 26 and wish to be vaccinated against HPV may request a prescription from their family physician or gynecologist and order the vaccine (for a fee) from the pharmacy. In the supplementary insurance, the vaccine is available for men up to age 26 and for women up to age 45. After receiving notification that the vaccine has arrived at the pharmacy, please schedule an appointment to receive the vaccine at the Leumit nursing clinic.

Who Should Be Vaccinated?

Vaccination is recommended for everyone, including boys and girls, men and women, from the age of 9, as per the Ministry of Health guidelines. HPV does not only affect women, with 40% of cases of HPV-related cancer occurring in men.
The HPV vaccine prevents over 90% of cancers caused by the HPV virus.

Early Detection and Intervention

HPV PCR cervical screen

Cervical cancer screening using HPV PCR cervical screening (replacing the Pap smear) detects the presence of HPV above the clinical threshold and identifies the virus strain. This innovative and sensitive test is crucial for early detection and prevention of pre-cancerous cells and cervical cancer.
For more information, please click this link.