16 Sep 2008
The Human Papilloma virus, also known as HPV, is a family of common contagious viruses. HPV is so common that it is now one of the most frequently sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Canada; it’s estimated that as many as 75 per cent of sexually active men and women will have at least one HPV infection in their lifetime.
While most Human Papilloma viruses are usually harmless, cause no symptoms and clear up by themselves, some can cause genital warts and some can lead to cervical cancer. Unfortunately most sexually active people who have HPV are unaware that they have it, so the infection is often passed on to partners without their even knowing it, which is why it is often referred to as the “silent” infection.
The good news is that there is a vaccine that can help to protect against HPV types 16 and 18, which are responsible for an estimated 70 per cent of cervical cancers, as well as types 6 and 11, which cause 90 per cent of genital warts. The HPV vaccine is recommended for girls and women aged nine to 26 years old.
This fall, Grade 8 girls will again be offered the vaccine series in schools. Information about the vaccine and consent forms are being sent home with Grade 8 girls to help parents and their daughters make an informed decision about the voluntary vaccine.
The vaccine requires three shots. The second shot is given two months after the first dose, and the third is given six months after the first dose. The complete series should be given within 12 months. The province recently announced that girls who received at least one dose of the three-part series in the Grade 8 year may finish the series at no cost during their Grade 9 year.
It’s important to remember, however, that the vaccine does not prevent the spread of all types of HPV or other sexually transmitted infections such as HIV, chlamydia or gonorrhea. Nor is the vaccine a replacement for a Pap test, which is the only way to detect precancerous cells in the cervix. Education about prevention and protection against HPV and other STIs is key for teens and young adults as they learn to take care of their sexual health.
Those females not included in the Grade 8 group can be vaccinated by their family physician and at health unit immunization and sexual health clinics at a cost of about $400 for the three-dose series. Some insurance plans may cover the cost.
For more information about the HPV vaccine, or about any of the other routine immunizations available, call Your Health Connection at 721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520 weekdays 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. or check the health unit website www.simcoemuskokahealth.org.
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