Which strains of HPV are included in the quadrivalent vaccine?

The quadrivalent HPV vaccine, known as Gardasil, is specifically designed to protect against four HPV types that are commonly associated with significant health issues. The strains included in this vaccine are types 6 and 11, which are responsible for the majority of genital warts, and types 16 and 18, which are associated with a higher risk of cervical and other anogenital cancers.

By targeting these particular types, the vaccine effectively reduces the incidence of both pre-cancerous lesions and genital warts, making it a critical preventive measure against HPV-related diseases. The inclusion of types 16 and 18 is particularly important due to their significant contribution to cervical cancer cases worldwide.

Thus, having a vaccine that covers these four strains provides broad protection for individuals, especially those who are sexually active. This understanding of the vaccine's components is crucial for both clinical practice and public health initiatives aimed at reducing the burden of HPV-related diseases.