HPV

Titlevaccine
Slide

© Cancer Council
What is HPV?
• HPV stands for human papillomavirus. There are lots
of different types of HPV.
• Genital HPV is a very common sexually transmitted
infection which usually has no symptoms and goes
away by itself, but can sometimes cause serious
illnesses.
• Almost all cases of genital warts and cervical cancer
are due to HPV.
• HPV also causes some other genital cancers in women
and men including vaginal, vulval, penile and anal.
How do you get HPV?
• 9 out of 10 people have HPV at some time in their
lives.
• It’s very common.
• Both men and women can get HPV.
• You can be exposed to HPV the first time you’re
sexually active, from only one sexual partner.
How do you get HPV?
• The virus is transferred from one person to the other
through tiny invisible breaks in the skin.
• The types of HPV that cause genital cancers and warts
are passed on by genital-skin to genital-skin contact.
• Condoms offer some but not total protection from HPV,
as they don’t cover all of the genital skin. However,
condoms do protect against other sexually transmitted
infections and help prevent unwanted pregnancy.
HPV and cancer
• Usually, HPV leaves the body naturally and you never
know you had it.
• Sometimes HPV doesn’t leave the body naturally. We
call this ‘persistent’ HPV infection.
• Persistent HPV infection can cause abnormal cells to
develop.
• These cells may develop into cancer, usually over
many years, if they aren’t treated.
The HPV vaccine
There is a vaccine that can stop girls and boys getting
nine HPV types that cause:
•90% of cervical cancers
•most genital HPV-related cancers in males
•90% of genital warts.
The HPV vaccine
• For people aged 14 and under, the vaccine is given as
two injections in the upper arm, six to 12 months apart.
• People who are aged 15 or over when they receive their
first dose, or people who do not receive the injections at
least six months apart, will need three injections.
• Ideally, the three doses should be given at 0, 2 and 6
months – that is, the second dose should be given two
months after the first, and the third dose four months
after the second.
The HPV vaccine
• It’s very safe.
• Some people do experience mild side effects such as
pain, redness or swelling at the injection site, however
this is very normal and these symptoms usually go
away quickly.
• The vaccine works best when given at age 12-13,
before you become sexually active.
How does the vaccine work?
• When the vaccine is given, the body makes antibodies
in response.
• If a person is then exposed to the real virus, the
antibodies can clear it from the body.
• This is called immunity.
How does the vaccine work?
• The vaccine doesn’t cause any type of cancer or
genital warts.

• You can learn more about the vaccine works by

watching this video
Why should you get the vaccine?
• Having the HPV vaccine means you’re less likely to get
some genital cancers and genital warts in the future.

• To find out everything you need to know about why you

should get the vaccine, watch the video on the
homepage - www.hpvvaccine.org.au
How successful is the vaccine?
We have already seen some great results from the HPV
vaccine. These include:

1. A reduction in HPV types responsible for most

cervical cancers
2. Halving the number of abnormal cervical screening
results that can lead to cervical cancer in Victorian
girls
3. The near disappearance of genital warts
How to get the HPV vaccine at
school
You should:
1. Take the consent form home to your
parents/guardian for them to sign
2. Return the signed form to the school
3. Make sure you turn up on the day!

It’s important to note the vaccine is only available for free

at school for a limited time.
What if I miss a dose at school?
• If you miss a vaccine dose at school, it is possible to
get a ‘catch up’ dose from your doctor or local
immunisation provider.
• In some states, catch up doses are available at school.
• It’s important to get both doses of the vaccine for best
protection.
Will girls still need Cervical
Screening Tests?
• Girls will still need Cervical Screening Tests in the
future if they have the vaccine.
• This is because the vaccine doesn’t protect you against
all of the HPV types that can lead to cervical cancer.
• You will need Cervical Screening Tests every five years
from the age of 25 if you have ever been sexually
active.
Vaccination day
• What will happen on the day? [Outline schedule]
• Have a good breakfast before going to school
• Wear sports clothing so the nurse can reach your
upper arm easily.
• If you’re nervous, go first and get it over with or try
listening to music (with headphones).
Vaccination day
• Avoid too much strenuous physical activity after you
have the vaccine.
• After the vaccine most people feel fine.
• But if you don’t feel well, tell the nurse who gave you
the vaccine, a teacher or your parents/guardians.
More information
If you want more information about HPV, cancer and the
vaccine go to:

www.hpvvaccine.org.au