The essentials
- Usual timing
- Offered in Grade 7
- How to get it
- Ask a primary care provider or public health unit about local appointments and funding.
Helps prevent infection with HPV types that cause several cancers and genital warts. It works best before exposure to HPV and is offered to students of all genders. It does not treat an existing infection or replace cervical screening later in life.
School status
Publicly funded through Ontario’s school program. Not required under Ontario’s school vaccination law.
Side effects & precautions
A sore or swollen arm, headache, nausea or fever can occur. Fainting can happen with needles; remain seated as the clinic advises. Side-effect guidance
A severe allergic reaction is rare. Tell the vaccinator about serious allergies, an immune-system condition or a previous reaction.
Call 911 for trouble breathing or swelling of the tongue or throat. Not sure whether a reaction is expected? Contact a healthcare provider or call 811 for advice. Seek care promptly if symptoms are worrying or getting worse.
Useful to know
Why do some sources say one dose?
Ontario’s Grade 7 program lists two doses. National recommendations generally use one dose at ages 9–20, with a second dose an option after discussion. People with a weakened immune system or living with HIV need three doses. Confirm the Ontario plan with public health; do not cancel a booked dose based on this page. National dose recommendations
Pregnancy
Current national guidance allows HPV vaccination in pregnancy. Discuss the relevant program and your circumstances with a provider.
Ingredients & more detail
Check the exact product
Ask the clinic for the product name. Its official Canadian product information (product monograph) lists ingredients, packaging, side effects and precautions. This page is a short overview, not a complete safety list.
Your next step
Bring the immunization record and a list of questions to the visit. Ask which doses count, what comes next and how to report new doses to public health.
Sources and references (5)
Program details can change. How this guide is reviewed