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HPV (Human papillomavirus)

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of viruses that can cause cervical, penile, anal and throat cancers, as well as genital warts. 

The HPV vaccine helps protect against HPV. It’s recommended for children aged 12 to 13 years old and people at higher risk from HPV. 

Screening is offered to all women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64. During cervical screening, a small sample of cells is taken from the cervix and tested for HPV. 

Some sexual health clinics may offer anal screening to men with a higher risk of developing anal cancer, such as men who have sex with men.

Illustration of the Human papillomavirus (HPV) as if seen through a microscope.

HPV vaccine myth-busting

Pupils from Beauchamp College ask local GP, Dr Fahreen Dhanji questions about the HPV vaccine.

HPV school vaccination programme

In the summer term 2024, Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust’s School Immunisation Service is offering all young people in Year 8 and above a free, safe and effective HPV vaccine to protect against HPV.

One dose can help to reduce the risk of developing HPV-related cancers and having the vaccination at around 12-13 years old means the protection can grow with your, so it is most effective.

The vaccine is given as a quick injection into the upper arm. It does not contain any alcohol or gelatine.

Cervical screening

Cervical screening, which used to be called smear test, is a test to check the health of the cervix and help prevent cervical cancer. It’s offered to women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64.

During the screening appointment, a small sample of cells will be taken from your cervix. The sample is checked for certain types of HPV that can cause changes to the cells of your cervix. These are called “high risk” types of HPV.

If these types of HPV are not found, you do not need any further tests. If these types of HPV are found, the sample is checked for any changes in the cells of your cervix. These can be treated before they get a chance to turn into cervical cancer.

To find out more about cervical screening, visit: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cervical-screening/. 

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