Can I wait until I'm older to get the vaccine?

The HPV vaccine works best when you get it before you're exposed to the virus. It’s most effective when given to youth ages 9 to 14, because you have a stronger immune response to the vaccine and make more antibodies at this age. But it's still worth it for older teens and adults. For your best chance of protection, don't wait.

Isn't the HPV vaccine just for girls?

No. It's important for youth of all genders to get the HPV vaccine. The vaccine was initially recommended for females because it prevents most cervical cancers. Today, it's recommended that youth of all genders get the HPV vaccine to stop the spread of HPV and help prevent several HPV-related cancers, including cervical and anal cancer.

How do we know the HPV vaccine is safe long-term?

More than 200 million doses of the HPV vaccine have been given safely worldwide. Serious side effects are very rare following HPV immunization. Over 15 years of safety monitoring show that the HPV vaccine is very safe and effective long-term.

I don't think I'm at-risk of getting HPV. Why should I get vaccinated?

HPV is very common. Most sexually active people who are not vaccinated will be infected with HPV at some point in their lives. Most often the infection clears on its own, but sometimes, HPV infection can lead to life-threatening cancer. The good news? You can greatly reduce your risk of getting HPV-related cancers if you get the vaccine at a young age.

I missed getting the vaccine in grade 6. Is it too late to get it as a teenager?

It's not too late. The vaccine is still l highly effective in older teens and young adults. Even if you've already been exposed to some types of HPV, getting the vaccine can still protect you from other types it covers. There are catch-up programs available in later grades and in community settings like pharmacies, public health units and community health centres. Once you're a teen, the HPV vaccine works best the sooner you get it - so don't wait.

Do I need my parent's consent to get the HPV vaccine?

You don’t always need your parent’s consent. If your health care provider determines that you understand the vaccine and its risks and benefits, you can give consent for yourself. This is called mature minor consent. There’s no set age for mature minor consent in B.C., but parents usually provide consent for children 12 and under to be immunized, while older youth are often given the opportunity to consent for themselves.