Boys and girls aged 12-13 years are offered the HPV vaccination usually within the school setting to protect against cancer caused by the Human Papilloma Virus or HPV. The HPV vaccine is part of the NHS vaccination program. Touchwood Pharmacy offers the HPV vaccination and can provide information and advice about this vaccine and how it can prevent cervical and other cancers.
Why is the HPV vaccine a public health priority?
The HPV vaccination can help protect against what is called HPV cancers, these are cancers caused by the Human Papilloma Virus and include:
- Cervical cancer
- Some mouth and throat cancers
- Some cancers of the anal and genital areas
The HPV vaccine can also help protect against genital warts.
When is the HPV vaccination offered?
In England and Wales, boys and girls aged 12-13 years are routinely offered the first HPV vaccination when they are in Year 8 at school. There are two doses and the second one is offered between six and twenty-four months after the first one. It is important to have both doses to be property protected.
If you miss the HPV vaccine in Year 8 then the NHS will offer it free of charge up to age 25.
The HPV vaccine is important for both boys and girls
It is a common misconception that only girls should have the vaccination because of its clear connection with the prevention of cervical cancer. High-risk types of HPV are found in more than 99% of cervical cancers.
However, the HPV vaccine is recommended for and offered to both boys and girls because the Human Papillomavirus can cause other cancers in the genital area and is easily spread between the two sexes. There are around one hundred different types of HPV and approximately forty that affect the genital area.
Find out more about the HPV vaccination and how it can protect against HPV cancer with professional advice from Touchwood Pharmacy. There are lots of myths and untruths surrounding the HPV vaccine. Touchwood Pharmacy can allay your fears as this is a safe and highly effective vaccine to protect against cervical and other cancers.
