HPV (human Papillomavirus) is a very common virus which usually has no symptoms. More than 70% of unvaccinated people will get it at some point in their life.

Most people who become infected with HPV clear the virus from their body, but others may develop a range of cancers in later life caused by the HPV virus. HPV is usually spread through intimate sexual contact. Condoms don't provide complete protection. Some people may also develop genital warts, which can sometimes be difficult to treat.

Having the vaccine is important because we can't predict who'll develop cancer or genital warts. Getting the vaccine now protects you against future risks.

Immunisation helps protect against the HPV virus, which can lead to cancers such as:

• head and neck cancers
• cervical cancer
• anogenital cancers - for example, anal, penile (penis) cancer, cancer of the vagina, and cancer of the vulva

The vaccine is called Gardasil and protects against 9 types of HPV. This  includes types 16  and 18 which are the causes of most cervical cancers.

The HPV vaccine is offered to all genders from 12-13 years old, (usually in S1 year) free of charge. 

You will only need one vaccination

If you have not received a HPV vaccine, please contact NHS Lothian on 0300 790 6296 or email loth.covidvaccenquiries@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk (email used for all vaccinations, alongside covid vaccines).

If your child is educated at home and has not received an invitation for a HPV vaccine, please contact NHS Lothian on 0300 790 6296 or email loth.covidvaccenquiries@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk (email used for all vaccinations, alongside covid vaccines).

The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is available in Scotland for men up to and including 45 years old who have sex with men (MSM). 

The vaccine will help prevent HPV infection, which can cause genital warts and certain types of cancer. It’s especially important for those who are living with HIV, and those who have more than one sexual partner.

The HPV vaccine also protects you against over 90% of genital wart infections.

The vaccine is available from sexual health and HIV clinics. Please ask your sexual health doctor or nurse about the other vaccines recommended for MSM that help protect against hepatitis A and B infections.