HPV Vaccine Side Effects and Your Rights to Compensation

While many vaccines have been used for decades, some immunizations protect against more recently identified viruses. One such vaccine is the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which helps prevent cervical cancer and several other forms of cancer linked to HPV.

What Is Human Papillomavirus?

HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States, infecting approximately 14 million people each year. Nearly 90% of individuals will contract HPV at some point in their lives. While most infections resolve on their own, certain strains can lead to cancer.

The HPV vaccine is most known for reducing the risk of cervical cancer, which affects more than 12,000 women in the U.S. annually. However, it also protects against a range of other serious health conditions in both men and women, including:

• Vaginal and vulvar cancer

• Anal cancer

• Penile cancer

• Throat cancer

• Genital warts

Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?

The FDA approved Gardasil in 2006 to protect against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18. In 2014, Gardasil 9 expanded protection to five additional types (31, 33, 45, 52, and 58). The CDC recommends HPV vaccination for both girls and boys up to age 26.

Age Guidelines:

• Ages 9–14: Two doses, six months apart

• Ages 15+: Three doses over six months

Who Should Not Receive the HPV Vaccine?

• Pregnant individuals (vaccination should be postponed)

• Anyone who is moderately or severely ill at the time of vaccination

• Individuals allergic to yeast or components of the vaccine

• Anyone with a history of a severe allergic reaction to a previous HPV vaccine dose

Women who are breastfeeding can receive the vaccine without expected complications.

Common and Serious Side Effects of Gardasil (HPV Vaccine)

Most patients experience no issues after receiving the HPV vaccine. However, Gardasil and Gardasil 9 have been linked to rare but serious adverse effects, including:

Common Side Effects:

• Fever: 1 in 10 may experience a mild fever; about 1 in 65 may spike a temperature over 102°F

• Injection site pain: About 1 in 3 patients report redness, swelling, or shoulder pain

• Headaches: 1 in 3 recipients may have a headache the next day

• Dizziness or fainting: Can lead to fall-related injuries; patients should sit or lie down for several minutes after vaccination

Severe Reactions:

• Allergic reactions: These occur in about 1 in a million patients and may include:

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Swelling of the throat or tongue

  • Hives or rash

  • Rapid heartbeat or fainting

  • General body weakness

Can You Get Compensation for an HPV Vaccine Injury?

Yes. If you suffered serious or long-lasting injuries from the HPV vaccine, you may qualify for compensation through the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) or a separate vaccine injury lawsuit.

At Shannon Law Group, we represent vaccine injury victims in all 50 states. Our experienced team helps clients pursue payment for:

• Medical expenses

• Lost wages

• Pain and suffering

You can schedule a free, no-obligation consultation by calling us or filling out our online contact form. There’s no cost to hire us—the federal government pays our legal fees if your VICP claim is successful.