Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination

HPV, a prevalent virus, has the potential to induce cancer in individuals across all genders.

In the absence of vaccination, approximately 80% of adults will experience an HPV infection during their lifetime. For the majority, this virus remains asymptomatic and benign, often going unnoticed. Its primary mode of transmission is through skin-to-skin contact during sexual interactions. Fortunately, vaccination against HPV infection has been accessible for an extended period and serves as a safeguard against HPV-related cancers.

The HPV Vaccination is free if you are 9 to 26 years old.

What is HPV?
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) highly contagious viral infection that is transmitted through skin-to-skin, as well as sexual intercourse. It has the potential to cause genital warts and precancerous cell changes.

Without immunisation around 80% of adults will have an HPV infection at some point in their life. Generally, HPV infections are asymptomatic, meaning people can be carriers of the virus without knowing.

All adults are encouraged to be vaccinated against HPV. It is also important for women to undergo regular cervical smears or HPV screening.

Why should I get HPV Vaccination?
HPV vaccine, known as Gardasil 9 protects against the development of abnormal precancerous cells and cancers caused by the HPV virus. Gardasil protects against the 9 serogroups, which include the 4 that cause approximately 20% of cervical cancers.

The vaccine is part of the school-based immunisation programmes and is recommended for those ages 9 – 45 years of ages, however it is funded in pharmacy for those that are under the age of 27 years.

People aged 9-14 require 2 doses at 0 and 6 months. Whilst people aged 15-26 require 3 doses at 0, 2 and 6 months.

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