Help prevent certain cancers with the HPV Vaccine

Think you know HPV?


The most effective way to prevent HPV infections and HPV-related complications is to get immunized. Learn more about how you can help prevent cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases with a vaccine.

Facts:

    • HPV (human papillomavirus) is a sexually transmitted infection that causes genital warts and can lead to 6 types of cancer including cervical and anal cancer.
    • It is estimated that 75% of sexually active Canadians will have at least one HPV infection during their lifetime.
    • Most individuals don’t show any signs or symptoms and can pass the virus on to others through skin to skin contact without even knowing it.

Are you protected against HPV?

    • The HPV vaccine helps prevent certain cancers and selected diseases caused by 9 viral types.
    • The vaccine is indicated for individuals ages 9 through 45 years.
    • Boys and girls who missed the vaccine in grade 9 can still get their vaccine from the pharmacy depending on your province.
    • HPV vaccines may be publicly funded by your province, under certain criteria. Visit your pharmacist, local health authority or visit www.gardasil9.ca for details.

How many doses do I need for full protection?

The HPV vaccine, GARDASIL®9, is administered intramuscularly. If you are 15 years and over, you receive the vaccine in 3 doses:
  • First dose: at elected date
  • Second dose: administered 2 months after the first dose
  • Third dose: administered 6 months after the first dose
All three doses should be given in a 1-year period. Individuals are encouraged to adhere to the 0-, 2- and 6-months vaccination schedule.

In individuals 9 through 14 years of age, GARDASIL®9 can be administered according to a 2-dose schedule:
    • First dose: at elected date
    • Second dose: administered between 5 and 13 months after the first dose
If the second vaccine dose is administered earlier than 5 months after the first dose, a third dose should always be administered. If you’re interested in getting vaccinated with the HPV vaccine and have questions about the vaccine, speak with your family doctor. If you don’t have a family doctor, you can use the virtual consultation service to get connected with a family doctor who can evaluate if vaccination is right for you. Service available in BC only.

To book an HPV vaccination appointment, contact your Save-On-Foods pharmacist or book online.

Like to learn more?

To learn more about HPV and prevention with Gardasil visit www.gardasil9.ca