Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

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Vaccines are the best way to protect against some very serious infections.

The HPV vaccine protects against infections caused by four common types of HPV; 6, 11, 16, and 18.

What is HPV?

HPV is a virus that has more than 100 different strains. HPV infections are very common. They are spread by skin-to-skin contact. Most people who have HPV infection don’t have any signs or symptoms and may spread the infection without knowing.

Some types of HPV, such as 16 and 18, can cause precancerous lesions, cervical cancer, and other types of genital cancers. Other types of HPV, such as types 6 and 11, can cause genital warts.

In Canada, strains 16 and 18 cause 70% of cervical cancer. There are about 400 deaths in Canada a year from cervical cancer.

HPV is most commonly spread during sexual activity by skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.  Most people do not have symptoms and may not know they have been infected with HPV but they can still carry the virus and infect others.

Who should get the vaccine?

HPV vaccine is recommended National Advisory Committee on Immunization for girls 9 to 26 years of age. It is also approved for use by Health Canada for all females 27-45 years of age, and all males 9- 26 years of age, but not yet officially recommended for these groups. HPV vaccine works best when given before becoming sexually active. Once sexually active, the vaccine still works as persons may not have been exposed to HPV or may not have been exposed to the specific type of HPV that the vaccine is protecting against.

HPV vaccine is publicly funded (free) in Ontario for girls in grade 8 and is offered at school clinics. It is given in three doses; one in the fall, one in the winter and one in the spring.

For those who do not qualify for the publicly funded (free) program including males, some health plans may cover the cost of the vaccine. To determine if this vaccine is covered by your drug plan, contact your provider and provide them with the product DIN: 02283190.

How well does the vaccine work?

The vaccine provides protection against the four types of HPV in up to 98% of those vaccinated. The series (three doses) must be completed to ensure your best protection.

Who should not get this vaccine?

A health care provider may decide not to give this vaccine to:

• Anyone with a high fever or serious infection worse than a cold. They should delay having the vaccine until they are better.
• Anyone who has had a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to this vaccine in the past or who is allergic to any component of the vaccine:
• Gardasil™ contains: HPV protein, yeast, aluminum, sodium chloride, L-histidine,  polysorbate-80, and sodium borate
• Pregnant women

What are the side effects of this vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is very safe and side effects are rare. The most common side effects are mild pain, redness, and swelling where the needle was given. Other common side effects can include headache, fever, nausea, and dizziness. Serious side effects are rare.

This is not a complete list of side effects. You should always discuss the risks and benefits of any vaccine with a health care provider. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be taken following immunization to reduce discomfort or fever. Always follow package directions. Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA or Aspirin®) must not be given to children under 18 years of age.

Is there an alternative to the vaccine?

One way a person can protect themselves is to abstain from sex. Condoms do not provide reliable  protection against HPV.

Once sexually active, regular Pap tests are still required to check for changes in the cervix.

When should I seek medical attention?

Call your health care provider, go to the nearest hospital or call 911 if any of the following occur within three days of the vaccine:

• High fever (over 40C or 104F)
• Hives
• Swelling of the face or mouth
• Trouble breathing
• Very pale colour and serious drowsiness
• Convulsions or seizures
• Any other unexpected effects

If medical attention was required, please notify the health unit.

What else do I need to know?

After you or your child receive a vaccine, update the immunization record (Yellow Card). Keep it in a safe place.

The health unit is required to keep immunization records on file for all children enrolled in a day nursery or school. If your child receives immunizations from your health care provider, you can update your child’s record in any one of the following ways:

• Use the secure on-line form on our website (www.simcoemuskokahealth.org/immsonline)
• Fax a copy to 705-721-1495
• Mail a copy to: VPD Program, Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, 15 Sperling Drive, Barrie ON, L4M 6K9
• Drop off a copy at any one of our offices
• Call Your Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520 (toll-free)

A confidential electronic database stores this information and it is available to you on request. It is important to note that health care providers do not routinely provide this information to the health unit.