Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine

HPV VACCINE IS CANCER PREVENTION

The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is a safe, effective vaccine that can prevent HPV infection. HPV infection has been linked to six different types of cancers and the HPV vaccine can help prevent them!

The HPV Vaccine: Safe. Effective. Cancer prevention.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

HPV is a type of virus that is spread from person to person through skin-to-skin contact. There are many different types (strains) of HPV virus that can infect people. HPV infections are very common and almost everyone will be infected by some form of HPV in their lifetime.

HPV and Cancer

Infection with certain strains of HPV can lead to cancer. Most HPV infections will go away--and many infections might not even result in noticeable symptoms. However, some HPV infections will last longer and can develop into cancer. The most common cancers caused by HPV include cancers of the cervix, vagina, and vulva in women, cancer of the penis in men, and cancers of the throat and the anus in men and women.

Preventing HPV

Preventing HPV infection is difficult because the infection is very common and most people don't show any symptoms when the are infectious. The best way to prevent HPV infection is to be vaccinated with the HPV vaccine. The HPV vaccine prevents infection from nine different strains of HPV that are most commonly associated with cancer. The vaccine isn't just about preventing HPV, it's about preventing cancers caused by HPV, too!

"Someone You Love" - A film to learn more about HPV

To educate Virgnia's families and health care providers about the importance of HPV vaccination as a form of cancer prevention the Division of Immunization in partnership with the Division of Prevention & Health Promotion at VDH is pleased to offer screenings of the film "Someone You Love". This film, created by The Ohio Partners for Cancer Control, features the story of individuals and their families who have been affected by HPV infection and subsequent HPV-related cancers. The Division provides free screenings to the community followed by a panel discussion. For healthcare providers, free CEU credits are available upon viewing the film and completing any required forms.
To learn how you can host a screening or when the next available screening in your area please contact the Division of Immunization at 804-864-8055.