Have you heard about GARDASIL®, a new vaccine that helps prevent Human papillomavirus (HPV)? HPV is a major cause of genital warts and cervical cancer.
GARDASIL® immunises you against four strains of HPV - two that cause genital warts and two that cause 70 per cent of cervical cancer cases.
GARDASIL® has been recommended for females aged from 9 - 26 years of age (as well as males 9 - 15 years) and is given in three doses over a six-month period. For women who have ever been or plan to be sexually active, the vaccine, combined with regular pap smear tests, will significantly reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer.
GARDASIL® is now available free of charge to young women up to 27 years of age who have a Medicare card, at QUT Health Services and Local General Practitioners. From July 2007 until June 2009,
- females aged 12-18 years who missed doses during the school-based program; and
- females aged 18 to 26 years, however, the full course of 3 doses must be completed before the end of June 2009, with the first dose given before the woman reaches age 27 years.
International Students are also advised to have HPV vaccine . There will be a cost involved.
If you would like more information please contact our friendly practice staff to arrange an appointment with the Health Services Doctor.
For further information, go to
- Australian Government Funding of Gardasil, and
- www.cervicalcancer.com.au/. This site has the facility to send email and/or SMS reminders of 2nd and 3rd doses of vaccine.