Have you heard about the Human Papillomavirus, or HPV?
It’s a common contagious virus that affects all genders.
It spreads via sexual contact, and can cause genital warts, cervical cancer, as well as some cancers of the vulva, vagina, anus, penis and throat area.
Infection can be serious, but with the HPV vaccine there is a way to protect yourself.
It safely and effectively provides protection against a range of cancers and diseases, caused by 9 types of HPV.
And getting vaccinated is easy.
To be protected, you need two doses, six to twelve months apart.
Your school will give you more information about the vaccine, as well as a consent form that you will need to get signed by your parent or guardian.
If you miss a dose, speak to your GP or school-based immunisation provider about how you can catch up.
Talk to them about what you need to do.
So look out for more info and talk to your parent or guardian.
All students aged approximately 12 and 13 will be offered the HPV vaccine for free in schools as part of the National Immunisation Program. This short animated video explains to students the benefits of getting the improved vaccine, and the process of how the vaccine is administered.