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
4 out of 5 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 the
two HPV types that cause 70% of cervical cancers and most
genital HPV-related cancers in males.
It can also stop you getting the two HPV types that cause
90% of genital warts.
The HPV vaccine (Part 2)
The vaccine is given as three injections in the upper arm,
over six months.
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.
It’s important to get all three doses for best
protection.
Will girls still need Pap tests?
Girls will still need Pap 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 regular Pap tests from age 18 or 2 years
after your first sexual contact, whichever comes later.
So if you don’t have any sexual contact until you’re 21,
you don’t need to start having Pap tests until you’re 23.
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 an iPod.
Vaccination day (Part 2)
Avoid too much exertion 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