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HPV stands for human papillomavirus, and is a common infection that can cause six types of cancers. This includes cancers of the throat and neck, cervix, penis, anus, vulva and vagina. All genders and communities can be impacted by cancers caused by HPV.

HPV is very common. Around 3 out of 4 people are likely to get HPV at some point in their lives if they are not vaccinated.

HPV causes around 630,000 cancer diagnoses around the world each year. In BC, thousands of people get illnesses caused by HPV every year. Among First Nations people, cervical cancer caused by HPV was the 5th most diagnosed cancer between 2008-2017. Not all HPV infections lead to cancer, but some do and can cause a lot of harm to affected individuals.

HPV can be passed through close skin-to-skin contact and sexual activity.​

The cervix self-swab is currently the only available test for HPV. If you are eligible and due for cervix screening, you can order a kit by calling 1-877-702-6566 or visiting screeningbc.ca/cervix.

Most people have HPV without knowing it, which is why the HPV vaccine provides the best protection for you and others.

To reduce your risk of STIs, practice safer sex by using condoms or oral dams, having open conversations with your partners, and getting tested for STIs when you have symptoms, have multiple or new partners or routinely every 3-6 months. If you have symptoms or concerns, please talk to a health care provider.

The HPV vaccine is highly effective at preventing six types of cancer caused by HPV. It also protects against infections that cause genital warts.

The HPV vaccine is safe. Hundreds of millions of doses of the HPV vaccine have been given safely worldwide. There is over 15 years of data to support the vaccine’s safety.

When given at a young age, studies show the HPV vaccine is over 95% effective at preventing infection of the most common types of HPV that can cause cervical cancer, other cancers and genital warts.

The HPV vaccine is over 95% effective when given at a young age. Young people build better immunity and are protected before they get exposed to the virus. Even if you missed getting the HPV vaccine when you were young, getting it as an adult still provides crucial protection against cancers caused by HPV.​

The HPV vaccine is free for individuals ages 9-26 and some adults up to age 45.

The HPV vaccine is for everyone and offers protection for all genders. Getting the HPV vaccine when you’re young protects against many cancers later in life.

The HPV vaccine is free in BC for:

• All youth ages 9–26;

• Adults ages 27-45 who are:

• HIV positive;
• Two-Spirit, transgender or non-binary;
• Males who have sex with males, including those who may not yet be sexually active and
  are questioning their sexual orientation; and
• People who were treated for abnormal changes to the cervix after a colposcopy on or after July 31, 2025.

The HPV vaccine is offered at school to students starting in grade six. You can also get the vaccine at community health centres, local clinics and pharmacies.

Check your immunization records to see if you’ve received the HPV vaccine or contact your health care provider.

The HPV vaccine is now available for free for more people than ever across BC. Cancers caused by HPV are on the rise and the HPV vaccine is the most effective way to provide protection for you and others.