Human Papillomavirus Vaccine: Protecting Yourself from HPV Infection

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a highly contagious sexually transmitted infection that causes a variety of diseases including anal, cervical, vulvar, vaginal, oropharyngeal (mouth and throat), or head and neck cancer, genital warts, and abnormal or precancerous diseases of the anus, cervix, vagina, and vulva. There are more than 100 types of HPV, and some of them can be prevented with the HPV Vaccine. The vaccine is available in the US under multiple brand names such as Cervarix and Gardasil, and in Canada as Gardasil 9.

What is Human Papillomavirus Vaccine?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is an active immunizing agent used to prevent infection caused by human papillomavirus. It works by causing the body to produce its own protection (antibodies) against the virus. HPV infection is usually a sexually transmitted disease (STD) and is easily spread by having sex with an infected person.

Who Should Receive the Vaccine?

The HPV Vaccine is approved for use in people 9-45 years old, both females and males, to provide protection against cancer, genital warts, and other diseases and complications caused by HPV.

How is it Administered?

The HPV Vaccine is usually administered intramuscularly. It comes in both suspension and powder for solution form. It is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of your doctor.

Things to Consider

The HPV Vaccine can help to protect you from the diseases and infections caused by HPV. It is important to note that the HPV Vaccine only provides protection against disease caused by specific HPV types and will not protect against sexually transmitted diseases that are not caused by HPV. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of the vaccine.