About HPV vaccination
Vaccination to prevent the most common types of HPV infection and cancer of the cervix is now available in Canada. Studies show that the vaccination is 100% effective in stopping four types of HPV infection. These four types of HPV can cause:
- pre-cancerous changes and cancers of the cervix, vulva and vagina (types 16 and 18), as well as
- genital and anal warts (types 6 and 11).
These four types of HPV cause 70% of all cancers of the cervix and 90% of genital warts, and associated diseases such as cancers of the vagina and vulva.
What does vaccination not protect me from?
HPV vaccination protects you from four types of HPV:
- types 6 and 11 which can cause genital warts and sores; and
- types 16 and 18 which can cause cancer of the cervix.
However, researchers have identified over 100 types of HPV. More research is being done to find out if vaccination might protect you from other types of HPV that are closely related to these four types.
The HPV vaccination does not stop you from getting other sexually transmitted infections. Even when you have been vaccinated, you should always use a condom during sex to protect yourself.
What’s in these vaccines?
They contain a fluid that has tiny empty particles that mimic HPV but do not cause infection or cancer like real HPV might. After you get vaccinated, your body quickly starts making antibodies and white blood cells to “fight against” the four types of HPV it protects against. In fact, vaccination triggers your immune system to fight the “fake” HPV. This is how it protects you from infection.
There is no virus in this type of vaccine. Because it is not a live virus, you are in no danger of getting HPV when you get vaccinated.
Is vaccination safe?
The Government of Canada has approved vaccination for use in Canada. This decision was based on many clinical trials and studies showing that it is safe. People who were subjects of the studies had very few side effects, and the most common is temporary soreness at the site of injection.
You cannot be infected by the HPV virus when you get vaccinated; it does not contain any live or dead virus. Nor does it contain any preservatives, latex or antibiotics, thimerosal or mercury.
How long does the vaccination keep me safe?
We do not yet know how long it will protect you after you have received all three injections. Research has tracked girls for five years – the length of time it has been available – and the levels of antibodies in their systems remain very high. This means they have strong protection from HPV.
