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Date of posting: 08-07-2026
Reading time: 8 min read
A clear guide to the HPV vaccine for adults in India, who should get it, the dosing schedule, cost, and how to book it at home
The HPV vaccine, including Gardasil and Gardasil 9, provides immunological protection against high-risk human papillomavirus strains responsible for cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers, as well as genital warts, and is administered as a multi-dose series, with eligibility extending to adult men and women based on age and risk profile.
Most adults associate the HPV vaccine with adolescents, and for good reason; it is most effective when given before exposure to the virus. But a significant number of adults remain unvaccinated, and HPV does not stop being a risk once you turn 18. According to the World Health Organisation, HPV vaccination is the most cost-effective public health measure against cervical cancer, and the conversation around adult eligibility has expanded meaningfully in recent years.
This guide covers what the HPV vaccine protects against, who should consider it as an adult, the dosing schedule, cost in India, and how to book it at home through Apollo Homecare.
Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is an extremely common virus transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, most often during sexual activity. Most people will come into contact with some strain of HPV at some point in their lives. In most cases, the infection clears on its own without causing harm. In some cases, it persists, and certain high-risk strains are strongly linked to cervical cancer, as well as other cancers and genital warts.
The HPV vaccine protects against the strains most responsible for these outcomes. Vaccination, combined with regular cervical cancer screening, is one of the most effective tools available for preventing HPV-related disease.
1. Women who missed vaccination in adolescence: The vaccine is most effective when given before exposure to HPV, but it still offers meaningful protection for adults who were not vaccinated earlier and have not been exposed to all the strains covered by the vaccine.
2. Men: HPV vaccination is not limited to women. Men can also benefit from protection against HPV-related cancers and genital warts, and vaccination contributes to reducing transmission overall.
3. Adults with new or multiple partners: HPV exposure risk relates to sexual activity. Adults in this category may benefit from vaccination, and this is a conversation worth having directly with a doctor.
4. Adults seeking comprehensive preventive care: Even outside specific risk factors, many adults choose to get vaccinated as part of a broader approach to preventive health, alongside regular screening.
Eligibility and benefits vary by individual circumstances, prior HPV exposure, and age. A conversation with a doctor is the right starting point to determine whether vaccination is appropriate for you.
The HPV vaccine is administered as a multi-dose series, with the exact number of doses and spacing depending on age and the specific vaccine product. A healthcare professional will confirm the appropriate schedule based on your age and vaccination history before the first dose.
It is important to complete the full series as prescribed. An incomplete series may not provide full protection.
Apollo Homecare offers two HPV vaccine options at home.
Gardasil: Priced at Rs. 4,188 per dose, inclusive of administration charges.
Gardasil 9: A broader-coverage option priced at Rs. 10,073 per dose, inclusive of administration charges.
As the vaccine is given in multiple doses, factor in the full series when budgeting for vaccination. Visit the Apollo Homecare HPV vaccine page for current pricing and to check which option is recommended for your age group.
Yes. The HPV vaccine has been administered globally for over a decade with an established safety profile. The most common side effects are mild and local to the injection site, such as soreness, redness, or swelling. Some people experience temporary fatigue or a mild headache following vaccination.
Severe reactions are rare. As with any vaccination, inform the healthcare professional administering the vaccine of any known allergies or current illness beforehand.
Yes. Apollo Homecare's HPV vaccination-at-home service brings a trained healthcare professional to your residence to administer the vaccine, including in cities like Bangalore, where many adults seek HPV vaccine availability. The vaccine is transported under cold-chain conditions and administered with proper sterile technique, with post-vaccination guidance provided before the visit ends.
This is particularly useful for adults who prefer privacy for this specific vaccination or simply want to avoid the time and effort of a clinic visit.
For an overview of all vaccines available at home, read our guide: Vaccination at Home: How It Works, Benefits, and How to Book.
The HPV vaccine remains relevant well into adulthood, not just adolescence. For adults who missed it earlier, or who have specific risk factors worth discussing with a doctor, vaccination combined with regular screening remains one of the most effective tools against HPV-related cancers.
Book your HPV vaccine at home today. Visit the Apollo Homecare HPV vaccine page or call 1800 108 8586 (toll-free). Available across Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi NCR, Kolkata, Mumbai, Pune, Madurai, Mysore, Indore, and Guwahati. Visit apollohomecare.com to book.
1. Can adults get the HPV vaccine in India?
Yes. While the vaccine is most effective when given before exposure to HPV, adults who were not vaccinated earlier can still benefit. Speak with a doctor to determine if vaccination is appropriate for you.
2. What is the cost of the HPV vaccine in India?
Apollo Homecare offers Gardasil at Rs. 4,188 per dose and Gardasil 9 at Rs. 10,073 per dose, inclusive of administration charges. Visit the HPV vaccine page for current pricing.
3. What is the difference between Gardasil and Gardasil 9?
Gardasil 9 protects against a broader range of HPV strains compared to the original Gardasil vaccine. A healthcare professional can advise which option is appropriate based on your age and risk profile.
4. Can men get the HPV vaccine?
Yes. HPV vaccination is recommended for men as well as women, offering protection against HPV-related cancers and genital warts.
5. Is the HPV vaccine available at home in Bangalore?
Yes. Apollo Homecare offers HPV vaccination at home in Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Delhi-NCR, Kolkata, Mumbai, Pune, Madurai, Mysore, Indore, and Guwahati.
6. How many doses of the HPV vaccine do I need as an adult?
The number of doses depends on your age and vaccination history. A healthcare professional will confirm the appropriate schedule before your first dose.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. HPV vaccine suitability for adults depends on individual health history, prior exposure, and risk factors. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional before getting vaccinated.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. HPV vaccine suitability for adults depends on individual health history, prior exposure, and risk factors. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional before getting vaccinated.
Written by:
Apollo HomeCare is a trusted name in home healthcare, dedicated to delivering world-class medical care to patients in the comfort of their homes. With a team of expert doctors, nurses, and therapists, Apollo HomeCare provides personalized healthcare solutions, from post-surgical care and chronic disease management to physiotherapy and elder care. As a thought leader in the healthcare industry, Apollo HomeCare shares insightful blogs on home healthcare trends, wellness tips, and expert medical guidance to help individuals and families make informed health decisions. Our mission is to ensure quality healthcare is accessible, convenient, and compassionate.
