Treatment For Specific Common Medical Conditions

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus which most people will encounter at some point during their lives. It can be contracted through skin contact, including through sexual intercourse. Most infections clear up on their own over time, without causing any symptoms, but if a long-running infection is left untreated, it can lead to more severe health problems later in life, including genital warts and cancer. Cervical cancer is the most common cancer caused by HPV, but the virus has also been linked to other cancers of the mouth, throat and genitals. For information on the HPV vaccine and where to get it, visit this link. The vaccine is recommended for children of any gender, aged 9-26. It is usually free, but can be obtained on the market in case a person does not qualify.

​

People who receive the vaccine when they are young tend to develop greater immunity against the virus, and are therefore more resistant to these types of cancer throughout their later life. Vaccines are usually provided in schools during Year 8. Schools require a consent form to be signed by the student's parents before they are authorised to administer the vaccine. The HPV vaccine is also available at medical centres, such as the one where you see your GP, or at local health clinics for young people and children outside the educational system.