Dr. Marla Shapiro
Ready to take action against HPV?

Use our guide below in discussion with your child’s health care professional or local public health unit.

Download HPV prevention guide
Vaccinating your child before they become sexually active gives them the best protection against HPV-related cancers and diseases in the future.
Know your HPV facts.
HPV
Human papillomavirus
About

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a highly contagious virus and the most common sexually transmitted infection in the world.

HPV affects both girls and boys.

Risks

HPV can lead to six different cancers: cervical, vulvar, vaginal, anal, penile, and head and neck cancer. It can also cause genital warts.

Stats

Vaccinating your child before they become sexually active gives them the best protection against HPV-related cancers and diseases in the future.

When your child is between the ages of 9 and 14, they only require two doses of the HPV vaccine rather than three because their immune system is so robust at that age. After age 14, three doses are required.

As a mother of two small boys, and particularly as a gynecologist, I want all parents to understand the importance of educating our children about preventing HPV.
- Dr. Sari Kives
Ask the expert.
Dr. Marla Shapiro
How can I protect my child against HPV-related cancers and diseases?

You can reduce your child’s risk of contracting HPV by ensuring that they’ve been vaccinated against HPV.

Vaccination helps prevent most HPV-related cancers and genital warts. 

Help your children understand the concept of safe sex and the prevention of sexually transmitted infections.

At what age should my child be vaccinated against HPV? 

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends the HPV vaccine from 9 years of age onwards. These guidelines give you permission to vaccinate your child beginning at age 9, however each province has selected various ages based on accessibility and ease of implementing school-based vaccination programs.

The HPV vaccine is available through public health for both boys and girls within school-based vaccination programs. There is no cost to an individual parent.  

My child missed getting their HPV vaccine at school due to the pandemic. How do they get caught up?

Schools, public health clinics, and family doctors may have vaccination opportunities for catching up. Check with your local public health unit.

Download HPV prevention guide
Remember, HPV affects all Canadians, and it will take all of us to prevent it.

Learn how adult women and men can be protected against HPV too.
Dr. Marla Shapiro