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, vulva, penile and anal.
How do you get HPV? Part 1

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? Part 2

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 (Part 1)

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 (Part 2)

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 (Part 3)

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? (Part 1)

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? (Part 2)

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 Pap test 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 (Part 1)

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 (Part 2)

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