About the Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
In year 8, your child is offered the HPV vaccine. This reduces the risk of 9 strains of Human Papillomavirus, a common virus that is spread through skin contact (usually when having sex). While most types of HPV are harmless, some types are linked to an increased risk of genital, head and throat cancers including cervical, anal, penile, vaginal cancers as well as genital warts. The HPV vaccination is offered at this age due the vaccination’s proven effectiveness before the body encounters the virus and is for both boys and girls.
Previously young people required 2 doses of HPV, but this changed to 1 dose on 1st September 2023. The change reflects evidence from a range of studies from around the world that showed that a single dose offers robust protection that is comparable to 2 doses.
Those that are immunocompromised may required 3 doses over a 12-month period. This will be assessed by a Nurse on the day and if further doses are needed, your child will come home with a letter detailing next steps for you to take.
In the video below, Rachel from the Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust School Aged Immunisation team talks about secondary school vaccinations or follow the vaccination overview links provided. This video can be found in several other languages at the bottom of the page.
Leaflet
Vaccine used is Gardisal9
The vaccine is:
- an intramuscular injection, usually given in the upper arm
- porcine free
- egg free
Read more on GARDASIL®9 (Human Papillomavirus 9 valent Vaccine)
Or for and easy read to read with your child visit Easy read guide to the HPV vaccination
For vaccine specific patient information leaflet visit Patient Information Leaflet: Gardasil 9 suspension for injection 7330
For further information on HPV, including side effects and contraindications visit NHS HPV vaccine website
For further information on independent research carried out on vaccines, visit Oxford Vaccine Group website
Frequently asked questions
How do I consent or refuse?
You will need your school code which school can provide you with or it is on the letter we sent you via school or all school codes. Visit the school codes page.
Why should I refuse?
We need to be aware of your wishes, without a refusal form your child may be eligible to consent for themselves using young persons consent.
What is young persons consent?
This is the process for a nurse to assess a young person for Gillick Competence. Gillick competence is where a child is believed to have enough intelligence, competence and understanding to fully appreciate what’s involved in their treatment. For further information on Gillick Competence, please visit NHS children and young people consent to treatment
Can I just let my child consent for themselves on the day?
We prioritise those with parental or legal guardian consent in place, if time allows and vaccinations available, we then offer to call parent or legal guardian for verbal consent or assess the young person for Gillick Competence. If you want your child to be vaccinated, completing a consent form ensures that they are seen if they are in school when we visit.
What if I consent and either change my mind or my child’s health has changed?
If you change your mind regarding consent or there are any changes to your child’s health following submission of the form, you must contact us on the above telephone number.
If I refuse, can I consent later?
Yes, please contact us and we can change your refusal form to a consent form.
