Cancer Council Victoria has updated its video resource for promoting the HPV vaccine to teenagers to reflect the changes in the program.
In 2018, the nine valent HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9) replaced the quadrivalent HPV vaccine (Gardasil 4) in the National Immunisation Program. The vaccine now covers nine types of HPV instead of four. The additional five types are high-risk, cancer-causing HPV types.
The vaccine is given routinely in two doses at least six months apart to girls and boys in high school at age 12-13 years, with catch-up vaccination up to the age of 19 also now available through GPs and immunisation services. Young people aged 15 or over at the time of the first dose still require three doses for full protection.
This fun and friendly video is just a few minutes long and includes information on the new two-dose vaccine.
The video is designed to help teens understand how the HPV vaccine can prevent cervical cancers and HPV-related cancers. It also takes them through the process of getting each dose and what to do on the day, and encourages teenagers to get the vaccine while it’s available and free for their age group.
Key facts about the new two-dose vaccine:
- The new two-dose vaccine (brand name Gardasil 9) replaces the three-dose quadrivalent vaccine (brand name Gardasil)
- The new vaccine extends protection against cancer causing HPV types – with the addition of five oncogenic HPV types which are the next most frequently detected in cervical cancers
- This will increase the level of protection against cervical cancer in Australia from 70% to 90%
- The vaccine works well and is very safe
- Two doses are now recommended for those aged 12 – 13 years
- Three doses are still recommended for older individuals or those with significant immunocompromise
- If a teen misses a vaccination at school they can get the vaccination at their GP or local council provider
For more detailed information on the new vaccine, read this article in the RACGP news.
GPs and nurses who wish to use the video when talking to patients about the vaccine can view it on YouTube or download it from the HPV vaccine website.
Disclaimer: This article was provided by Cancer Council Victoria. While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network does not warrant or represent the accuracy, currency and completeness of any information or material included within.
