What is the cervical cancer vaccine?

There are two cervical cancer vaccines currently available in Australia. Gardasil protects against HPV types 16, 18, 6 and 11, while Cervarix protects against HPV types 16 and 18.

HPV types 16 and 18 are responsible for around 80% of cervical cancers in Australia (70% worldwide). HPV types 6 and 11 are responsible for around 90% of genital warts.

The vaccine is given in a series of three injections in the upper arm or thigh, over a six-month period.

The Gardasil vaccine can be obtained from schools, GPs or other immunisation providers. The Cervarix vaccine can be obtained from your GP.

More information:

» Do I still need Pap smears?
» Who can get the vaccine?
» National HPV vaccination program
» Scientific information