Know the Facts: HPV

The HPV vaccine is cancer prevention

  • Don’t wait to get vaccinated. It’s safe and most effective when given at an earlier age. Learn more.

  • Protect future you from HPV-related cancers including cervical, vulvar, penile, anal and head and neck cancers. Learn more.

  • It’s free from Grade 7 to 12. You can receive the vaccine in school as part of the Grade 7 immunization program or high school immunization clinics. You can also call your primary care provider, or call Public Health at 519-822-2715 ext. 7006 to book an appointment with Public Health.

Commonly asked questions about the HPV vaccine

Isn’t the HPV vaccine only for girls?

No, the HPV vaccine is recommended for all genders to stop the spread of high-risk types of HPV infections that are related to cancer (e.g., cervical, vulvar, anal, penile, head and neck cancers) and genital warts. The publicly-funded (free) HPV vaccination program in Ontario was initially only open to females but has included males since 2016.

Can I wait until I am older to get the vaccine?

It is best to receive the HPV vaccine at a younger age. Research shows that the immune response to the HPV vaccine among 12-13 year olds is much stronger than older children. A stronger immune response means fewer doses are required to be effective.​

Am I too old to get the vaccine?

In Ontario, students can receive the publicly-funded (free) HPV vaccine starting in Grade 7 until the end of their Grade 12 year. However, research shows that the vaccine is still highly effective when given to older teens or young adults.

Call 519-822-2715 ext. 7006 to speak with a Public Health Nurse to learn more about the benefits of the HPV vaccine for your age group.

I missed my vaccine at school, where can I get the vaccine?

You can get the HPV vaccine at your local Public Health unit. Call 519-822-2715 ext. 7006 to book an appointment. You can also contact your primary care provider (family doctor or nurse practitioner) to receive the HPV vaccine at their office.

Is the HPV vaccine safe?

Yes, 600 million doses of the HPV vaccine have been given safely worldwide. The HPV vaccine has been monitored post-market for over 15 years in Canada.
Most people only experience mild side effects after vaccination, such as redness or swelling at the injection site. Serious side effects are extremely rare.

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have a history of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) within 6 weeks of a previous vaccine, please speak to a healthcare provider about getting this vaccine.

Visit HPV and the HPV Vaccine to learn more.

Watch Neil and Alison’s story

Get the HPV vaccine. Future you will thank you. (campaign from the Government of BC)