Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is a really common virus that’s passed from person to person through sexual contact
And affects both males and females
In most people it’s harmless and has no symptoms
And their immune system effectively gets rid of the virus
However, in some people the virus can persist and may lead to a number of HPV related diseases
Including genital warts, cervical cancer, and some cancers of the vulva, vagina, anus, penis, and throat area
All students aged approximately 12 and 13 are offered the HPV vaccine for free in schools as part of the National Immunisation Program
It’s two injections that work best before boys and girls become sexually active
I know some people worry about vaccines, but I want my daughter to be as safe and protected as possible in all areas of her life
If the vaccine can protect her against HPV related cancers
Then it’s an easy decision for us
It’s just one less thing to worry about knowing my sons can get this vaccine
And it’s done in school
All my mates are getting vaccinated too
For me the safety of my kids is everything
HPV vaccines are proven to be safe
And have been used for over 10 years
With millions of doses given around the world
Which is really reassuring
Yeah, I had it last year at school and it didn’t hurt much
It was a bit red the next day, but I was fine
Vaccinations are available through school, which makes it easy
And if you miss a dose, speak to your GP or school-based immunisation provider about how you can catch up
Together we can keep our kids safe
Sign the consent form so your child can be vaccinated
And lets help protect against HPV
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common, contagious virus that can cause cancers and diseases in both men and women. The HPV vaccine protects against 9 types of HPV and requires 2 doses. It is available for males and females aged 12 to 13 years through school based immunisation providers or your GP.