Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is an extremely common virus spread through sexual contact. Nearly all sexually active people will encounter HPV at some time. Not only is HPV responsible for most cases of genital warts and cervical cancer but other cancers including anal, vaginal and penile cancers.
Primary prevention for HPV includes vaccination with 9vHPV (Gardasil) that protects against nine HPV types:
- Types 16 and 18: cause most HPV-related cancers.
- Types 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58: five next most common HPV types associated with cervical cancer
- Types 6 and 11: non-cancer-causing HPV which cause 90% of genital warts.
As part of the National Immunisation program, 9vHPV is funded for all 9-25 year olds.
HPV vaccinations are given through the Secondary School Immunisation program for 12-13 year olds as a single vaccine, however it can be given in an ACCHO if a child has missed this vaccination through the school.
The NCIRS recent interim report for vaccination coverage in 2024 showed the continued decline in HPV vaccination coverage for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adolescents. 3 out of 10 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adolescents had not received an HPV vaccine dose by 15 years of age.
- To ensure all adolescents receive the vaccine d to reduce their risk of HPV-related cancers and genital warts we encourage services t Always check immunisation status through the Australian Immunisation Register and,
- offer the 9vHPV (Gardasil 9) vaccination if needed.
If you require assistance with resources or vaccinations, please reach out by emailing PublicHealth@ahmrc.org.au
