Big Impact
Small Act, Big Impact
HPV is a common virus that affects our skin. For most people the virus goes without issue, but for some, it can cause cancer.
Getting the HPV jab can reduce this risk and protect you from various different cancers.
Find out how, why, and where to get vaccinated today.
WHAT IS HPV?
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common virus that affects our skin. You can get HPV from:- any skin-to-skin contact of the genital area
- vaginal, anal or oral sex
- sharing sex toys
- Head and neck cancer
- Anal cancer
- Vaginal cancer
- Vulval cancer
- Cervical cancer
- Penile cancer
Getting the HPV jab can reduce your risk and protect you from these cancers.
It’s estimated that around
80% OF US
will have HPV at some point in our lifetime
There are
MORE THAN 100
different types of HPV
What is the HPV vaccine for?
The HPV vaccine helps reduce your chances of getting human papillomavirus (HPV), and various cancers. It is given as an injection into your arm and can be up to three doses, depending on your age and immune system.
- If you’re aged 18–25, you’re likely to need one dose
- If you’re aged 25–45, you may need two doses
- If you have a weakened immune system, have 3 doses (given over a 12-month period)
DO I NEED THE HPV VACCINE?
Since April 2018, men who have sex with other men (MSM) have been eligible for free HPV vaccination on the NHS when they visit sexual health services and HIV clinics in England, if they are 45 or under.
Trans women are eligible for the HPV vaccine if their risk of HPV is similar to the risk of MSM who are eligible for the HPV vaccine.
Trans men are eligible if they have sex with other men and are aged 45 or under. If they have previously completed a course of HPV vaccination as part of the children’s HPV vaccine programme, no further doses are required.
MEET OUR ‘SMALL ACT, BIG IMPACT’ CHAMPIONS
Joe knows that getting the HPV vaccine doesn’t have to be complicated. He made it part of a routine sexual health check-up and was reassured by how straightforward the process was.
For James, the HPV vaccine is about more than personal protection — it’s about honouring the memory of a loved one and protecting his community. After losing a family member to cancer, he wanted to take positive steps to prevent others going through the same pain.
Otis is clear about the importance of prevention. He was surprised by how quick and simple the process was — just 10 minutes to make a big difference to his future health.
Theo admits he didn’t know much about HPV at first. But once he found out more information, he booked his vaccine straight away. For him, it’s about making simple choices today that protect his future.
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