The goal of human papillomavirus (HPV) immunization is to reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer and genital warts from HPV infection. The Gardasil® vaccine to be used in the provincial program protects against four HPV types with cause approximately 70% of cervical cancer and 90% of genital warts.

The HPV vaccine does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections. The Ministry of Health encourages all resident to practice safer sex, including the use of condoms.

The HPV vaccine is not intended to replace standard Pap smear screening programs. All females should have regular physical examinations and Pap tests once they become sexually active. A Pap test is the only way to find abnormal cervical cells and/or cervical cancer.

Three needles will be given over a six month period. All three doses are necessary to provide maximum protection.

The injection will be given in the arm and will be given along with other routine childhood vaccinations for hepatitis B, meningitis and chickenpox.

The vaccine is safe with very few potential side effects. Gardasil® is not a live vaccine, meaning it has no components that affect the safety or effectiveness of other vaccines, nor does it cause HPV in girls.

Health Canada conducts rigorous scientific review about a vaccine's safety, effectiveness and quality prior to granting approval for use in Canada. There have been no reports of serious illness related to Gardasil® vaccine in Canada.

The most common side effects are similar to those expected with any vaccination: slight fever and/or swelling, redness or pain at the needle site. There have been reports of fainting following the vaccination, which is also not uncommon when vaccines are administered to adolescents.

If you have any concerns about the vaccine's safety and your daughter, discuss this with your health care provider.

No. The HPV vaccine is voluntary, as are all childhood immunizations provided by public health in Saskatchewan.

However, the Ministry of Health strongly recommends that parents make sure their children receive all their childhood vaccinations, and that girls receive this HPV immunization to protect them against cervical cancer and genital warts.

Before your child receives any immunization, you will receive information on the shots that will be provided. You will also receive a consent form, which you will need to complete and return to the school with your child.

Girls should not receive the HPV vaccine if:

• they are seriously ill;
• they are pregnant; or
• they have had an allergic reaction to a previous HPV immunization.

Even if your daughter has a minor illness (common cold, low-grade fever, etc.), they may receive the vaccination.  If she has any other significant medical conditions, discuss this vaccine with your physician to ensure that it is right for her, before providing your consent.