How is the HPV vaccine given?
The HPV vaccine is given as two injections into the upper arm over a six to 24 month period.
The HPV vaccine is given to girls and boys at secondary school aged 12 to 14 (school year 8 and year 9) as part of the NHS childhood vaccination programme.
Girls and boys who have been offered the HPV vaccine in school year 8, but have missed the vaccination at school can get their vaccine until they are 25.
Speak to your school nurse, school immunisation team or GP practice about getting the vaccine if you missed it at school.
Do I have to consent to the HPV vaccine?
Girls and boys in year 8 at school usually receive a letter about the vaccine and a consent form before they are due to have the vaccine. Although a parent or legal guardian is asked to sign a consent form, it is up to the person being offered the vaccine whether they have it or not.
The HPV vaccine will help to protect from HPV infection and cancers caused by HPV.
The HPV vaccination: doses and timings
The HPV vaccine is given as an injection into the muscle of the upper arm. Gardasil has been the HPV vaccine used by the NHS since 2012 and Gardasil 9 has been used since 2022.
The vaccination consists of two doses, with the second dose given six to 24 months after the first dose.
Gardasil 9 can be given for the 1st and 2nd dose, or can be given as the second dose to complete a course that was started with Gardasil.
Last Updated: 17/02/2022 16:04:09
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