HPV and HPV Vaccination

Understanding HPV

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus that can be passed on through intimate skin-to-skin contact, including sex. In the UK, it's estimated that 8 in 10 people will acquire HPV at some point in their lives. Most HPV cases go away on their own without
causing any health problems. However, some types of HPV can cause genital warts and certain cancers.

Genital Warts: Some types of HPV can cause genital warts, which are growths that appear in the genital area, around your bottom, or vulva or scrotum and penis. These warts can vary in size and appearance and may cause itching or discomfort.

Cancer: Certain types of HPV are linked to cancers of the cervix, vulva, vagina, penis, anus, and throat. HPV infections that persist can lead to the development of these cancers over time.

HPV Vaccination

Vaccination against HPV is available to help prevent HPV-related diseases. The HPV vaccine is highly effective at preventing infection. The vaccine is recommended for both males and females and is typically administered in a series of doses.

Benefits of HPV Vaccination

Prevention of HPV transmission: The vaccine protects against several types of HPV that can cause genital warts and cancer.

Reduction of Cancer Risk: HPV vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of developing cervical, vaginal, vulvar, anal, penile, and throat cancers.

Herd Immunity: By increasing the number of people vaccinated, less HPV is spread which means even people who are not vaccinated are protected.

Is the HPV Vaccine Safe?

The HPV vaccine has been extensively studied and is considered safe. Like all vaccines, it may cause mild side effects such as soreness at the injection site, fever, or headache. Serious side effects are rare.

Who Should Get Vaccinated?

In the United Kingdom, there is a national HPV vaccination program to protect against HPV-related diseases. The program aims to vaccinate boys and girls to reduce the transmission of HPV and prevent associated health issues.

HPV vaccination is routinely offered to:

• Girls aged 12 to 13 in school year 8 (typically around age 12)
• Boys aged 12 to 13 in school year 8 (since September 2019)

If you missed getting vaccinated when you were 12 or 13, the HPV vaccine is available for free on the NHS for all girls under 25 years and boys born after 1 September 2006.

The HPV vaccine is also available on the NHS for:
• Men who have sex with men under the age of 45 years
• Transgender people who are felt to be at the same risk as men who have sex with men
• Sex workers
• People living with HIV

Contact your local sexual health clinic or GP for more details.

Remember:
• HPV is common, but vaccination can help protect against HPV-related diseases.
• The HPV vaccine is safe and eQective, oQering protection against genital warts
and certain cancers.
• Taking advantage of the HPV vaccination program can safeguard your health and
the health of your community.

Sources:
- National Health Service (NHS) UK
- Public Health England
- Department of Health and Social Care

If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to ask us.

Contact Information: chelwest.anogenitaldysplasiaservice@nhs.net

You may also wish to talk to your GP or local pharmacy about paying for the vaccine if you do not meet the criteria for NHS eligibility and wish to be vaccinated.

References:
1) https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/hpv-vaccine/
2) https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/hpv/public/index.html