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About the HPV vaccine

To consent to your child having the HPV vaccination, please complete a form via this link     

Introduction 

HPV (human papillomavirus) is a very common virus.  

Most people get it at some point in their lives, usually without any symptoms, and it often goes away on its own.  

Some types of HPV can cause health problems in adulthood. This includes cervical, genital, anal, head and neck cancers. Other types can cause genital warts.

 
Why should I get my child vaccinated? 

  • The HPV vaccine helps protect against the 9 types of HPV that can cause cancer.  

  • It reduces cell changes in those who have been vaccinated - this is the best way to prevent future cervical cancer. 

  • When lots of people in a community get vaccinated, the HPV virus spreads much less. 

  • This helps protect everyone, even those who aren’t vaccinated. Studies from around the world show that in places with high vaccination rates, HPV infections and early signs of cancer are much lower 

  • The HPV vaccine works best when given at 12-13 years of age before someone is exposed to the virus, which is why it’s offered in school.  

  • This protects their health for the future. Health experts and organisations worldwide strongly recommend giving the vaccine early because it provides the strongest, long-lasting protection against HPV-related cancers 

  • Electively home-educated children can get the vaccine at GP or attend our community catch up clinics (link to clinic) 

 
Who can have the vaccine, and how many doses are needed? 

Here’s how the HPV vaccine works: 

  • All children in Year 8 (ages 12–13) are offered the vaccine at school. The HPV Vaccine is being offered to boys since 2019. 

  • Most children only need one dose. 

  • Some children may need more than one dose, for example if they have certain medical conditions If this applies to your child, the nurse will explain what is needed (For more details, visit HPV vaccine - Public Health Wales 

  • All  children who have has missed the vaccine in Year 8,  will be re-offered the vaccine  in Year 9, 10 or 11. 

  • The HPV vaccine is safe to receive along with any other vaccinations. 

 

How well does the HPV vaccine work?  

  • Highly effective in preventing HPV infections linked to cancers  

  • Reduces cervical pre-cancer by up to 90%  

  • Almost eliminates genital warts in countries with high uptake  

  • Most effective when given during the ages 12-13  

 It is a proven cancer-prevention tool.  

 

 

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