You know you want to help protect your child against HPV and HPV-related cancers, but you have some questions to help make you more comfortable before you decide.

HPV is a very common virus

In most people, HPV is harmless; however, for some people, infection by certain strains of the HPV virus can lead to HPV-related cancers.

The good news is that there is a vaccine to help protect your child against HPV and HPV-related cancers.

The sooner your child is immunised the better

Research has shown that the response to the vaccine is better in younger people. And immunisation is recommended before they have the chance to come in contact with the HPV virus.

Like the other vaccines they got as a child, the HPV Vaccine works by causing the body to produce its own protection (virus-fighting antibodies) against HPV.

If you wait, your child may need more shots

For children 9 to 14 years of age, the vaccine is given as a series of 2 shots in the upper arm, with the second dose being given between 5 to 13 months after the first.

However, if they get it when they are aged over 15 years old, 3 doses are required with the last dose recommended to be given 6 months after the first. All 3 doses should be given within a 1-year period.

Have more questions?

Your doctor or nurse will have all the information on vaccines including the HPV Vaccine and they can help with any questions you have including understanding the consent form your son or daughter brought home from school.