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 Content Editor

Human papillomavirus (HPV-9) vaccine

Learn about the HPV-9 vaccine, effectiveness, side effects, and safety.

Diseases it protects from

The HPV-9 vaccine protects against 9 strains (types) of human papillomavirus. These 9 strains may cause up to:

  • 92% of cervical cancers
  • 75% of anal cancers
  • 57% of penile cancers
  • 72% of vaginal cancers
  • 25% of head and neck cancers
  • 90% of genital warts

Who should get this vaccine

Grade 6 students can get the HPV-9 vaccine as part of the school immunization program. If you did not get the HPV-9 vaccine in Grade 6, you can still get it for free up to and including age 26 years.

You may be able to get this vaccine for free if you are age 9 to 45 years and:

  • You have had or are going to have an organ transplant.
  • You have had a stem cell transplant or CAR T-cell therapy (a type of cancer treatment).

Ask your healthcare provider if you can get this vaccine for free.

If you cannot get this vaccine for free, it may still benefit you. Talk to your doctor to find out if it is a good idea for you. Check with your health insurance provider to see if your plan covers the cost.

Who should not get this vaccine

You may not be able to get this vaccine if:

  • You have an allergy to any part of the vaccine.
  • You had a severe (serious) or unusual side effect after this vaccine or one like it.
  • You are pregnant.

If you are planning to get pregnant, you should finish all the recommended doses of HPV-9 vaccine before you start trying to get pregnant.

If you have allergies or have had a side effect to this vaccine, check with your doctor or a public health nurse before you get the vaccine.

Although you can get the vaccine if you have a mild illness such as a cold or fever, you should stay home until you are feeling better to prevent spreading your illness to others.

Doses

If you have a healthy immune system and get your first dose before age 15 years, you need 2 doses, 6 months apart.

You need 3 doses over 6 months if:

  • You get your first dose at age 15 years or older.
  • You have a weak immune system.

Get the vaccine

Grade 6 students can get the vaccine in school. Grade 9 students who missed getting the vaccine at the usual time can also get it in school. Parents and guardians will get an information package that includes a consent form. If you want your child to get the vaccine in school, you must complete and sign the consent form and return it according to the instructions provided. Learn more about school immunization.

If you can get this vaccine for free, contact your local public health or community health centre. If you want the vaccine and need to pay for it, contact a travel health clinic or talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

HPV vaccine decision tool

If you are unsure about getting the HPV vaccine for yourself or your child, try the HPV Vaccine Decision Tool. The tool asks about any questions or concerns you have about the vaccine and provides you with the information you need to reach a decision that you are comfortable with.

Current as of: July 1, 2024
Author: Provincial Immunization Program, Alberta Health Services
Our work takes place on historical and contemporary Indigenous lands, including the territories of Treaty 6, Treaty 7 & Treaty 8 and the homeland of the Métis Nation of Alberta and 8 Métis Settlements. We also acknowledge the many Indigenous communities that have been forged in urban centres across Alberta.