Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a virus that can infect many parts of the body. There are over 100 types of HPV. Through the provincial program in Alberta, HPV vaccine is offered to children in grade 5. Contact your community/public health centre for more information.
- Infection with some types of HPV can cause cervical, vulva and vaginal cancers. HPV (serotypes 16 and 18) cause about 70% of cervical cancers. HPV can also cause cancer of the anus or penis.
- The HPV virus can also cause warts. HPV serotypes 6 and 11 cause about 90% of warts in the genital area.
Getting the HPV vaccine is much safer than getting the disease.
How well does the vaccine work?
The vaccine protects against serotypes 6, 11, 16 and 18. It doesn’t help if there has already been an exposure to 1 or all of the serotypes.
What is in the vaccine?
- The vaccine has tiny amounts of HPV virus that have been weakened so they can’t give you the disease.
When is the vaccine given?
- HPV vaccine is available to children in grade 5.
- For best protection, 3 doses of the vaccine are needed. The first 2 doses are given 2 months apart and the third dose is given 6 months after the first.
What are the risks with immunization?
There can be some side effects, but they are usually mild and go away in 24-72 hours.
Possible reactions include:
- pain, redness or swelling at the injection site
- fever, headache and feeling tired
As with any immunization, unexpected or unusual side effects can happen, including serious allergic reaction.