Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Test
British Columbia Specific InformationHealth Canada approves the HPV vaccine Gardasil
for use in women up to the age of 45. The vaccine is provided free to girls in grade 6. Girls born in 1994 or later who were eligible for the HPV vaccine but did not receive it may contact their local health unit to get vaccinated at no cost. Immunize BC further recommends the vaccine to boys age 9 to 26 but this is currently not publicly funded. Women and girls under the age of 45 who are not eligible to receive the vaccine for free can purchase it from a pharmacy or at their doctor's office.
For more information about the human papillomavirus (HPV) and the HPV vaccine, see
HealthLinkBC File #101a Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection and
HealthLinkBC File #101b Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine. For more information on other HPV vaccine programs in B.C., visit the
ImmunizeBC website.
For more information on sexually transmitted infections, including sexual health information, where to get tested and other sexual health services in your area, visit the
SmartSexResource website.
Last Revised:
November 16, 2012