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Human Papillomavirus Vaccine (Gardasil™)
What is human papillomavirus?
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus that affects
both females and males.
• There are more than 100 different types of HPV. Some
cause no harm while others can cause disease of the
genital area.
• It is estimated that about 75% of Canadians will have at
least one HPV infection during their lifetime.
• 385 Canadians die annually from cervical cancer.
What does Gardasil™ contain?
• Gardisil™ contains yeast, aluminum, sodium chloride,
L-histidine, polysorbate, sodium borate and water for
injection.
• Gardasil™ does not contain preservatives or antibiotics.
• Does not contain latex.
How effective is the vaccine?
• Within one month of completing the series 99% of females
become immune to the four types of HPV.
• The vaccine protects against types 6, 11, 16 and 18 that
cause genital warts and cervical cancer.
How long does the protection last?
• Unknown at this time, however high sustained antibody
levels have been observed for at least 5 years during
vaccine testing trials.
Who should receive the vaccine?
• Females 9 to 26 years of age.
• Receiving the vaccine does not eliminate the need for
regular Pap screening.
Who should not receive the vaccine?
• Girls younger than 9 years of age.
• Women above the age of 26 years.
• Anyone who has had a life-threatening allergic reaction to
any component of the vaccine, or to a previous dose of
HPV vaccine.
• Anyone with moderate to severe illness may have to delay
immunization.
• Anyone with a hypersensitivity to yeast.
• Pregnant women should not get the vaccine, although the
vaccine appears safe for both the mother and unborn
baby.
• Women who get pregnant between doses are advised to
postpone the next scheduled dose until the pregnancy is
completed.
• Any woman who learns that she was pregnant when
she received the HPV vaccine is encouraged to call the
HPV Vaccine Pregnancy Registry at 1-800-986-8999.
• Women who are breastfeeding can safely receive the
vaccine.
• HPV vaccine can be given at the same time as other
vaccines.
How is the vaccine given?
• By injection into a muscle.
When should the vaccine be given?
• A series of 3 doses:
- the second dose given 2 months after the first dose
- the third dose given 6 months after the first dose
• HPV vaccine can be given at the same time as other
vaccines.
What might be felt after receiving HPV vaccine?
Very Common (10% or greater):
• Mild soreness, redness or swelling at the injection site.
Common (Between 1% and 10%):
• Nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, itchiness, headache.
Very Rare (less than 0.01%)
• Severe local or systemic reactions such as an allergic
reaction.
Call one of the numbers below if you have severe or unusual reactions.
For more information, call Public Health Services
International Travel Centre: (306) 655-4780
North Health Centre: (306) 655-4700
Our Neighbourhood Health Centre: (306) 655-4950
South East Health Centre: (306) 655-4730
West Winds Primary Health Centre: (306) 655-4275
©2008, Saskatoon Health Region. Reproduced only by permission.
(updated January 4, 2010)
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