Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination
On This Page:
What Is HPV?
How Does HPV Spread?
What Is the HPV Vaccine?
Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?
Are HPV Vaccinations Safe?
What are the Symptoms of HPV?
Can HPV Be Treated?
Where Can I Get an HPV Vaccine?
What Is HPV?
HPV, or human papillomavirus, is a group of over 150 different, related viruses. Some of these viruses can cause warts. Others can lead to serious cancers of the throat, mouth or genitals.
A large number of Canadians are believed to have the disease. Many become infected every year through sexual contact.
How Does HPV Spread?
Human papillomavirus spreads through intimate skin-to-skin contact. Vaginal, oral or anal sex are all ways the virus can pass from person-to-person. The virus is so common that most men and women have it as some point in their life.
Symptoms can develop years after infection, making it hard to know when the infection started.
It is possible, but rare, for a mother to pass HPV to her child. But, it can lead to a serious condition called recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP). This is a dangerous condition where HPV warts grow inside the throat.
There are no documented cases of HPV spreading from surfaces in an environment, like toilet seats.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – HPV Vaccination
“Staff in the clinic is very patient and knowledgeable, very good experience. I was nervous about the HPV vaccine and they helped me out. Definitely would reference to other people.”
“I went to Passport Health primarily to get an HPV booster. The nurse was knowledgable and helpful and followed up by email later with some additional info. I also appreciated the lack of a “hard sell” for items I could get easily elsewhere! Thanks”
What Is the HPV Vaccine?
HPV vaccines provide nearly 100 percent protection against cervical precancers and genital warts. They are the best way to prevent the viruses in sexual active individuals.
In countries with widespread usage of the HPV vaccine, infection rates have dramatically decreased.
To provide the most protection, the series of HPV doses should be completed. This involves either two or three doses, based on age. Even if it has been years since the last dose, it is best to complete the series.
Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?
The PHAC recommends everyone (female and male) from 11 to 21-years-old receive the HPV vaccine. Women may receive the vaccine through 26 years of age. A vaccination is highly recommended for groups with increased risk. These include:
- Gay or bisexual men through 26-years-old
- Transgender adults through 26-years-old
- Immune-compromised adults through 26-years-old
Since 2016, only two doses of HPV vaccination are recommended if the series is given before a 15th birthday.
Are HPV Vaccinations Safe?
Yes, the HPV vaccine safe. All three available HPV vaccines have gone through extensive studies to verify their safety. No serious safety concerns have been identified in studies accounting for almost 100,000 participants.
The most common side effects are mild like most other vaccines. The PHAC, WHO and Passport Health highly recommend and support HPV vaccination.
What are the Symptoms of HPV?
Most people with HPV will never have any symptoms or health issues. About 90 percent of infections clear up within two years, without treatment. When HPV does not go away, it can cause serious problems.
The most common symptom is genital warts. These can be large, small, flat or raised. A healthcare provide can help diagnose them.
HPV can cause cancer in some individuals. These are usually cancers of the cervix, vulva, vagina, penis or anus. Throat, tongue and tonsil cancers are also known to occur.
Can HPV Be Treated?
Treatment varies significantly based symptoms presented. Genital warts may be treated by a healthcare provider or with a prescription medication. If left untreated, warts may resolve themselves or grow.
Cancer screenings are important if you have had HPV. Women should get a routine Pap test and follow up as needed. Men should seek guidance from a primary care provider on their specific situation.
Where Can I Get an HPV Vaccine?
Passport Health carries various HPV vaccines and will help you decide on the best one for use. Call or book your vaccination online today.
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