Overview
The human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine offers protection against nine types of human papilloma virus which can lead to cervical and other cancers as well as genital warts.
The HPV vaccine is safe and effective. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection that is spread through skin-to-skin contact during sex. Over 75% of women and men will contract HPV at some point in their lifetime, if not immunized.
The most effective way to lower your risks and protect yourself from HPV infections and related cancers is to get vaccinated against HPV. Vaccination works best when it is given prior to infection with HPV.
Even if an individual is already infected with one or more vaccine-preventable HPV type(s), the vaccine will provide protection against the other HPV type(s) contained in the vaccine.
In New Brunswick, the vaccine is provided free of charge to individuals aged 9 to 26 (less than 27 years old).
As part of the routine immunization schedule, it is administered to all grade 7 students during school vaccination clinics.
Those who did not receive it in school and are still eligible can receive it at their primary care provider such as family doctor or nurse practitioner.
New recommendations since August 2024:
Pregnancy is no longer a contraindication to the vaccine.
Pregnant individuals who are unvaccinated against HPV remains at risk of infection and increased pregnancy complications. This vaccine is safe and should be offered to all pregnant individuals.
Who it is NOT recommended for
If you had a life-threatening reaction to a previous dose or to any ingredients of the vaccine or its container, you should speak with your health-care provider.
There is no need to delay getting immunized because of a cold or other mild illness. However, if you have concerns speak with your health care provider.
Reactions to the vaccine are generally mild and last one to two days. Common reactions to the vaccine may include soreness, redness and swelling where the vaccine was given. Fever may also occur.
With any vaccine, there is an extremely rare possibility (less than one in a million people) of a life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. For this reason, it is important to remain in the clinic for 15 minutes after receiving the vaccine. Signs of an allergic reaction may include rash, difficulty breathing or swelling of the throat, tongue or lips. This reaction can be treated. Any unexpected or serious reaction to a vaccine should be reported to your health-care provider.
Treating reactions
Adolescents who did not receive their HPV vaccine in grade 7 and who are still in school can contact their local Public Health office to book an appointment.
Eligible adults can contact their primary care provider such as a family doctor or nurse practitioner.
Vaccination records for people aged 16 and older are available by registering online at MyHealthNB. To access your immunization record, please register or sign in to your MyHealthNB account.
The paper record of immunization provided when vaccinated will continue to be the official record. Keep your immunization records in a safe place.
If the information on your record is incorrect or if you received immunizations outside of New Brunswick and want them added, you can send an email to: [email protected] .
If your vaccination record is not available at MyHealthNB contact the place you received your vaccines: your health-care provider, your pharmacy, or your local Public Health.
Please inform the immunization provider of any health problems or allergies.
Your immunization provider will give you a record of the immunization. Keep this record in a safe place and bring it when your next immunization is due.
If you have any unusual reactions to the vaccine or you have any questions or concerns, please contact your health-care provider.
Useful websites:
Last reviewed: January 2025