Answer:

Human papillomavirus (HPV) primarily spreads through sexual contact and skin-to-skin contact. Beyond two types, 6 and 11, which cause genital warts, high-risk types such as 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58 often show no symptoms until precancerous lesions or cancer appear in the cervix, oropharynx, vulva, vagina, or penis.

In the throat region, HPV can cause oropharyngeal warts and oropharyngeal cancer. Symptoms include a persistent sore throat, bad breath, difficulty swallowing, bleeding, one-sided nasal congestion, and the presence of warts if suffering from oropharyngeal warts. A sore throat after sexual activity can also stem from various other conditions. You should monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention promptly.

A sore throat could be due to an HPV infection or other conditions; a medical examination is needed to determine the exact cause. Illustration: Vecteezy

Patients should adhere to treatment, avoid sexual activity, not share personal items with others, maintain oral and pharyngeal hygiene, gargle with salt water, limit alcohol and tobacco, avoid smoke and dust, keep the throat warm, drink sufficient water, and boost immunity through a balanced diet and adequate rest. Vaccination, including HPV vaccine, helps reduce the risk of infection from HPV types such as 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58, which are included in the vaccine.

Vietnam currently offers two HPV vaccines. Gardasil 9 protects against nine high-risk types and is administered to males and females aged 9-45, providing over 90% protection. Individuals who have had sexual contact or were previously infected with one type can still be protected against other types. A 32-year-old male will receive three doses over six months. Those previously infected with HPV can still be reinfected; vaccination helps reduce this risk.

Doctor Phan Nguyen Truong Giang

Medical Manager, VNVC Vaccination System

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