Did you know the very common virus, HPV, is one of the causes of head and neck cancers? Around 500 people in New Zealand are diagnosed with such a cancer each year.
The best way to protect tamariki against HPV is to get them immunised. The HPV vaccine is given to both boys and girls, as it can help reduce head and neck cancers later in life. It is free for people aged 9 to 26. If you're age 27 to 45, you can discuss options with your healthcare professional for an unfunded HPV vaccine.
Lots of tamariki are offered the HPV vaccine at school, usually in Year 7 or 8. This is the best time for immunisation, as a pre-teen’s immune system is really effective at making antibodies in response to the vaccine and protection is long-lasting. It’s also an ideal time because most young people have not yet been exposed to HPV at this age.
If your tamariki didn't get vaccinated at school, or you want to be with them for the appointment, talk to your doctor, nurse, or healthcare provider.
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