Facts about HPV (Human papillomavirus)

• HPV is a common virus that can cause cancers and genital warts in people of all genders.
• Without vaccination, 80% of adults will have an HPV infection at some point in their life.
• In most people the virus is harmless and causes no symptoms so you may be unaware that you have it.
• It is shared mainly through sexual skin-to-skin contact.
• Vaccination against HPV infection has been available for many years, and protects against HPV cancers.

Why get vaccinated?

The HPV Vaccine prevents human papillomavirus (HPV) types that cause several cancers, including cervical, vaginal, vulvar, anal, throat and penile cancers. It also prevents HPV types that cause genital warts.

Vaccination is not a substitute for cervical screening. This vaccine protects against most but not all HPV types that cause cervical cancer. People with a cervix should still follow the National Cervical Screening Programme.

When should HPV vaccination occur?

Vaccination is most effective when given prior to HPV infection, i.e. before becoming sexually active. For people who are already sexually active, the vaccine may still be of benefit as it will prevent the acquisition of new HPV infections for the strains the vaccine covers.

How effective is the HPV vaccine?

Almost all HPV infections that cause abnormal cells and cancer can be prevented by the HPV vaccine. It is highly effective.

How safe is the HPV vaccine?

The vaccine is very safe and no different from other common vaccines. The most common side effect is soreness at the injection site. Millions of doses have now been given all over the world. As with all medicines and vaccines, ongoing surveillance continues to monitor safety. 

How long does the HPV vaccine last for?

Completing the primary vaccination course (2 or 3 doses depending on age) is expected to offer lifelong protection.

How do you get the HPV vaccination how much will it cost?

The HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9) is funded (FREE) for everyone in Aotearoa aged 9 up to their 27th birthday. People who are outside of this age range can have the vaccine, however, they will need to self-fund it. The full cost for the vaccination programme (3 doses) will vary but is approximately $500-600. Your doctor or nurse will be able to give you more information on the cost of the HPV vaccine.

The vaccine is given in 2 or 3 doses depending on age:

2 doses: 9-14 years (given over 6-12 months through a school-based programme)

3 doses: 15+ years (given over 6 months).

Gardasil 9 is offered to year 7 and 8 students, in participating schools through the Ministry of Health’s HPV Immunisation programme. This includes non-residents under the age of 18.

For everyone aged 9–26 years (inclusive) who does not get vaccinated at school, Gardasil 9 is available free of charge through their GP or Health Care Provider.

Why are people with a penis now included in the HPV Vaccination Programme?

Research shows that HPV infection is shared during sexual activity and people with a penis are at risk of HPV anal, penile and throat cancers, as well as genital warts.

Do you need to find out if you are already HPV infected before having the HPV Vaccine?

No. HPV testing is not required before vaccination.

What if you choose not to vaccinate against HPV?

As HPV is common and unavoidably shared once you start having sex, if you are not vaccinated you are at risk of infection. Vaccination, ideally before ever having sex, is therefore highly recommended and is the most effective way of preventing cancer and wart-causing strains of HPV.

HPV vaccination and safer sex

In addition to HPV vaccination, it is also recommended that people continue to protect their sexual health by:

• Attending cervical screening (if they have a cervix) as advised by their healthcare provider.
• Using a condom (external or internal (female condoms)) or dental dam every time for any casual sexual encounter and with a new partner.
• Getting an STI test done after unprotected sex, every 6 months and/or on change of sexual partner.

Where can I get further information?

• HPV Helpline: 09 433 6526 from a mobile.
• Your GP, Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa Clinic or Sexual Health Clinic
• Your Colposcopy Clinic
• National Cervical Screening Programme Freephone 0800 729 720
  

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