Human papillomavirus (HPV)

What is HPV?

HPV stands for human papillomavirus.

HPV is the name of a very common group of viruses and some types can cause genital warts or cancer.

Why should I have this vaccine?

HPV infection is very common.

More than 70% of unvaccinated people will get it and it increases the risk of developing some cancers later in life, such as:

cervical cancer
some mouth and throat cancers
some cancers of the anus and genital areas

Who is the vaccine for?

Girls and boys aged 12 to 13 years of age.

When would I have it?

The first dose of the HPV vaccine is given in Year 8 with the second dose usually 6 to 12 months later in Year 9.

The vaccine is given in your arm and you need 2 doses to be fully protected.

Remember

get your 2 doses of the HPV vaccine at least 6 months apart
get your HPV vaccine now to protect yourself against a number of cancers in the future
in time it is expected that the vaccine will save hundreds of lives every year in the UK

More information

For more information please email the Sheffield 0-19 Immunisation Team on:
scn-tr.sheffielddutysn.vacandimm@nhs.net

Or visit www.nhs.uk/hpv

Is something missing from this resource that you think should be included? Please let us know

Disclaimer

Please note: this is a generic information sheet relating to care at Sheffield Children’s NHS FT. These details may not reflect treatment at other hospitals. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professionals’ instructions. If this resource relates to medicines, please read it alongside the medicine manufacturer’s patient information leaflet. If this information has been translated into another language from English, efforts have been made to maintain accuracy, but there may still be some translation errors. If you are unsure about any of the guidance in this resource or have specific questions about how it relates to your child, always ask your healthcare professional for further advice.

0-19 Teenagers Condition information Medications Article

Resource number: HVS7

Resource Type: Article

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

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