Was harmful DNA in HPV vaccines hidden?

A viral article claims that HPV contains harmful HPV DNA fragments that can trigger autoimmune diseases, that pharma and the FDA covered up safety issues, and that regulatory agencies failed to properly test the vaccine–putting millions at risk.

The article claims that the HPV vaccine, is unsafe because it contains tiny pieces of HPV DNA left over from making the vaccine. While some studies, like those by Dr. Sin Hang Lee and commissioned by anti-vaccine group SANEVAX, have found small amounts of these DNA fragments in the vaccine, scientists and health experts agree that these fragments are harmless. The human body is very good at breaking down DNA, and there is no way for these tiny pieces to mix into a person’s own DNA or cause damage. According to the FDA, any DNA left in the vaccine is biologically inactive, meaning it does nothing to the body. This means there is no risk from these fragments, even if they are present.

One of the article’s claims is that the leftover DNA could cause the immune system to overreact and lead to diseases like Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), a condition that affects blood circulation. The article suggests that these DNA pieces activate something in the body called Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9), which helps the immune system recognize dangerous invaders like viruses. However, vaccines are supposed to activate the immune system so the body can learn how to fight infections safely. Just because TLR9 is involved in the immune response does not mean the vaccine is dangerous. Further, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) confirmed that the HPV vaccines do not cause POTS.

Scientific claims need strong evidence that different researchers can repeat. The studies that claim DNA fragments in HPV vaccines are dangerous have not been confirmed by other scientists, and their results have not been accepted by major health organizations.

On the other hand, many large studies have been done by independent researchers around the world, and they all show that the HPV vaccine is safe and effective. Just because scientists can find DNA in the vaccine does not mean it is harmful. The best way to know if a vaccine is safe is to look at millions of people who have taken it—and the evidence clearly shows that HPV vaccines prevent cancer and have no serious risks.