Protect Your Future. Prevent HPV.
Get informed. get vaccinated.
What is HPV?
HPV, or the Human Papillomavirus, is a common virus that is spread through skin to skin contact – Did you know that there are more than 100 types of the HPV virus?
HPV is common - really common
Most sexually active people will be exposed to HPV at some point in their lives.
HPV doesn’t discriminate
HPV can affect anyone, regardless of who they’re attracted to, how they identify, or the kinds of sex they have.
HPV isn’t just about cervical cancer
HPV can also cause warts on the genitals, anus, and feet.
Recent data shows that HPV can also cause:
- 100% of cervical cancers
- 90% of anal cancers
- 60% to 73% of mouth and throat cancers
- 40% to 50% of penile cancers
- 40% of vaginal and vulvar cancers
The HPV vaccine is the strongest tool to prevent HPV-related cancers and genital warts.
The HPV vaccine is safe – HPV vaccines have been used since 1997, are extensively studied, and prevent most cervical, anal, and throat cancers.
Who should get vaccinated?
- Anyone between the ages of 9-45
- People of all genders including those who are transgender, cisgender, Two-Spirit, non-binary and all gender diverse identities
- People who are currently sexually active, were in the past, or may be in the future
- People of all sexual orientations and any relationship status
- People living with conditions that affect the immune system
HPV vaccine access and eligibility varies across Canada. Contact your health provider to find out your options.
HPV Vaccination in Alberta
Is the vaccine free?
In Alberta the HPV vaccine is publicly available to young adults 26 and under. If you are older than 26, please speak to your health care provider for more information.
How many doses do I need?
You need 2 HPV doses 6 months apart in Alberta if you have a healthy immune system
You need 3 doses if you have a condition that affects the immune system or if your first dose is at 15 years or older.
Where can I get vaccinated?
- Sexual health clinics
- Some pharmacies
- Primary care providers
- Community health centres
School aged kids can receive the vaccine through school-based immunization programs. If you’ve missed a school-based immunization program, you can still get vaccinated.
- Call 811
- Press 1 for “Immunization”
- Press 2 for “Book Immunization”
- You will be redirected to the immunization line and will be asked for your health card number and some additional information
- Book appointment
If you are above 26, you can get the vaccine at a public health clinic or pharmacy but you may need to request a prescription. Speak to your health care provider or call 811 and dial 1 for “immunization” for more information.
Where can I get more information about HPV?
HPV Fact Sheet
Alberta Health Services (AHS) developed a fact sheet on HPV, which includes information on how the vaccine works and how to manage any side effects.
HPV Vaccine Decision Tool
AHS has built an interactive vaccine decision tool. Whether you are looking for more information for your child or for yourself, the HPV Vaccine Decision Tool helps answer your questions about HPV to support you in making an informed decision.
2SLGBTQI+ HPV Resources
In partnership with 2SLGTBQI+ community organizations, we’ve developed two resources to support 2SLGBTQI+ communities and healthcare providers:
Healthcare Provider Guide
A practical guide to help providers have inclusive, assumption-free conversations about HPV with 2SLGBTQI+ patients.
When conversations are respectful and inclusive, patients feel safer sharing accurate information. This helps make HPV prevention and vaccine recommendations more effective.
Community Fact Sheet
A clear, easy-to-read factsheet designed for 2SLGBTQI+ communities.
It provides relevant, respectful information about HPV and the vaccine, helping community members access trusted health information without judgment or confusion.
Additional HPV Resources
Praxus Health is running a province-wide campaign to raise awareness about the HPV vaccine, who should get vaccinated, why and where.
It also helps patients and providers connect to important resources! Check out the resources below:
- HPV Immunization – Information for Providers
- HPV Awareness Campaign – Information for Patients
- HPV Vaccines – Information for Young Adults
- Dr. Yan Yu on the Importance of HPV Immunization – Patient Information Video
Care is collective. Prevention is power.
Funding for this initiative has been provided through the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, the Urban Public Health Network and the Public Health Agency of Canada.