HPV Vaccination in Burnaby: Local Clinics Offer Free Shots for Teens

Introduction

HPV vaccination is a vital tool in preventing certain cancers and diseases. In Burnaby, residents have access to this important preventive measure at Brentwood Pharmacy, conveniently located near Brentwood Mall. The HPV vaccine protects against the types of HPV that cause up to 90% of cervical cancers, 90% of anal cancers, and 90% of genital warts. In BC alone, approximately 200 people are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year, and about 50 die from the disease, highlighting the importance of getting immunized against HPV.

Getting vaccinated against HPV is easy at Brentwood Pharmacy. Our experienced pharmacists provide professional vaccination services in a private consultation room, making it convenient and comfortable for people to protect their health. The vaccine works best when given to young people before they are exposed to the virus, and our team is here to help guide you through the process.

Brentwood Pharmacy offers flexible scheduling options with extended hours, including Saturday appointments, to accommodate busy schedules. Our bilingual staff provides service in both English and Farsi, ensuring clear communication about this important health decision.

Key Takeaways

• HPV vaccines prevent several types of cancer and are available at many Metro Vancouver pharmacies

• The vaccine is most effective when given to youth ages 9-14 but can benefit older teens and adults too

• Residents can easily find and schedule HPV vaccinations at local pharmacies in BC

Understanding HPV and Its Prevention

HPV is a common virus that can lead to several types of cancer. Knowing how it spreads and ways to prevent infection is key for protecting health.

What Is HPV?

HPV stands for human papillomavirus. It's a group of over 100 related viruses, including those that can lead to HPV infection. Some types can cause warts on different body parts. Other types can lead to cancer.

HPV is very common. Most people will get it at some point in their lives. The body often clears the virus on its own. But sometimes, HPV can stay in the body and cause health problems years later.

Some HPV types can cause:

• Cervical cancer

• Anal cancer

• Genital warts

• Other rare cancers

Modes of HPV Transmission

HPV spreads through close skin-to-skin contact. This usually happens during sexual activity. It can spread even if there are no visible signs or symptoms.

Ways HPV can spread:

• Vaginal sex

• Anal sex

• Oral sex

• Intimate skin contact

HPV can infect anyone, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. A person can have HPV without knowing it and pass it to others.

Prevention Strategies

The best way to prevent HPV is through vaccination. The HPV vaccine is safe and very effective. It works best when given before exposure to the virus.

Key prevention strategies:

1. Get vaccinated

2. Use condoms during sex

3. Limit sexual partners

4. Get regular cancer screenings

In British Columbia, the HPV vaccine is free for eligible individuals. It's most effective when given to young people aged 9-14. But older teens and adults can still benefit from getting vaccinated.

Regular screenings, like Pap tests, can catch cervical changes early. This helps prevent cancer even if a person has HPV.

HPV Vaccination and Its Importance

HPV vaccination protects against infections that can lead to certain cancers. It works best when given at the recommended ages, as advised by your local public health unit. Gardasil is a common HPV vaccine used in many countries.

Benefits of HPV Vaccination

HPV vaccination helps prevent several types of cancer. The vaccine protects against HPV types that cause about 90% of cervical cancers. It also guards against other genital cancers and some head and neck cancers.

The vaccine stops genital warts too. This makes it useful for both cancer prevention and reducing other health issues.

By getting vaccinated, people lower their risk of HPV-related health problems. This can lead to fewer doctor visits and less worry about certain cancers in the future.

Safety and Side Effects

The HPV vaccine has been safely administered over 200 million times worldwide. After receiving the vaccine, patients stay for a 15-minute observation period to monitor for rare allergic reactions.

Common side effects are generally mild and may include:

• Soreness and redness at the injection site

• Mild fever

• Headache

• Muscle aches

These typically resolve within a few days. Serious side effects are extremely rare (less than 1 in a million doses)."

Pregnancy Information:

Pregnancy Considerations: The HPV vaccine is not recommended during pregnancy, according to HealthLink BC. If you become pregnant during your vaccination series, you should wait to complete the remaining doses until after pregnancy. However, there's no evidence that getting the vaccine during pregnancy causes any harm.

Recommended Age Groups and Eligibility

HPV vaccines work best when given before any exposure to the virus. That's why it's offered to students in grade 6 in British Columbia.

Current eligibility for free HPV vaccination in BC includes:

• All grade 6 students

• Anyone who starts their first dose before age 19 and completes the series before age 26

• Eligible individuals aged 19-26 (contact your healthcare provider to check eligibility)

Even if you don't qualify for free vaccination, the vaccine may still be beneficial. Those over age 26 or not eligible for free vaccination can purchase the vaccine and should discuss their options with a healthcare provider.

The vaccine schedule depends on age:

• Ages 9-14: 2 doses, given at least 6 months apart

• Ages 15+: 3 doses over 6 months

• People with weakened immune systems: 3 doses regardless of age

Gardasil: A Prominent HPV Vaccine

Gardasil is a widely used HPV vaccine. The latest version, Gardasil 9, is approved for use in Canada. The HPV vaccine protects against nine types of HPV that can cause a variety of cancers..

This vaccine guards against the two HPV types that cause most HPV cancers. It also targets five more types linked to cervical and anal cancers.

Gardasil 9 is given in two or three doses, depending on age. It's safe and effective for both males and females. The vaccine has been tested extensively and is approved for use in many countries.

HPV Vaccination Services in Burnaby

In Burnaby, residents can access HPV vaccination services at local pharmacies and health units. These locations offer convenient options for getting protected against human papillomavirus.

Brentwood Pharmacy's Role

Brentwood Pharmacy plays a key part in providing HPV vaccines in Burnaby to help immunize the community. The pharmacy offers the HPV vaccine to eligible individuals as part of British Columbia's immunization program, supported by the BC Pharmacy Association.

Trained pharmacists at Brentwood can give HPV shots to both youth and adults. They follow the recommended vaccination schedule set by health authorities.

The pharmacy keeps the vaccines properly stored and handles them safely. This ensures the shots stay effective. Brentwood staff can answer questions about HPV and the vaccine.

Vaccination Process at Brentwood Pharmacy

Getting an HPV vaccine at Brentwood Pharmacy is straightforward. Walk-ins are welcome for the shot, or you can choose to book an appointment in advance.

The process begins with a quick health screening. The pharmacist checks for any reasons not to give the vaccine and explains how the vaccine works, along with potential side effects.

Next, the pharmacist administers the shot in the upper arm muscle. After the injection, patients are asked to wait for 15 minutes to monitor for any rare allergic reactions.

Brentwood Pharmacy staff ensure the vaccination is recorded in the patient’s health records. They also provide information on follow-up doses, if needed, and the timing of any future appointments.

Schedule Your HPV Vaccination at Brentwood Pharmacy

Ready to protect yourself or your child against HPV? Contact Brentwood Pharmacy today to schedule your vaccination appointment. Our bilingual staff provides service in both English and Farsi, ensuring clear communication about this important health decision. We offer flexible scheduling options with extended hours, including Saturday appointments, to accommodate busy schedules. Call us at (604) 564-3334 or visit our website to book your appointment. Protect your health with Brentwood Pharmacy, your trusted vaccination provider in Burnaby.

Frequently Asked Questions

The HPV vaccine in Burnaby is part of BC's public health program. It aims to protect people from certain types of HPV that can cause cancer and other health issues.

Q: What is the HPV vaccine and why is it important?

The HPV vaccine (HPV9) protects against Human Papillomavirus infections that can lead to several types of cancers and diseases. In BC, this vaccination is crucial because about 75% of unvaccinated sexually active people will get HPV at some point in their lives, often without knowing it.

Q: What types of cancers and diseases does the HPV vaccine prevent?

The HPV9 vaccine prevents:
- Almost 100% of cervical cancer cases from covered HPV types
- About 78% of anal cancers
- 90-100% of genital warts
- Cancers of the mouth, throat, penis, vagina, and vulva

Q: Which HPV vaccine is used in BC?

BC uses the HPV9 (Gardasil®9) vaccine, protecting against nine types of HPV. It's approved by Health Canada and provided free to eligible BC residents.

Q: Who can get the free HPV vaccine in BC?

The vaccine is free for:
- All grade 6 students
- People starting their first dose before age 19 and completing before age 26
- Individuals 19-26 who are:
  - HIV positive
  - Two-Spirit, transgender, or non-binary
  - Men who have sex with men
  - Street-involved

Q: How many doses of the HPV vaccine do I need in BC?

- Ages 9-14: 2 doses, given at least 6 months apart
- Ages 15+: 3 doses over 6 months
- People with weakened immune systems: 3 doses regardless of age

Q: If I missed getting the vaccine in grade 6, can I still get it for free?

Yes, if you start the series before age 19 and complete it before age 26. Some adults up to age 26 may also qualify based on specific eligibility criteria.

Q: Do I need my parent's permission to get the HPV vaccine in BC?

If you're 12 or older and understand the benefits and risks, you can consent to vaccination yourself. Those under 12 who demonstrate understanding can also provide their own consent.

Q: How can we be sure the HPV vaccine is safe long-term?

Over 200 million doses have been administered worldwide with extensive safety monitoring for 15+ years. Serious adverse reactions are extremely rare (less than 1 in a million).

Q: What are the common side effects of the HPV vaccine?

Common reactions may include:
- Soreness, redness, and swelling at injection site
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle or joint aches

Q: Can I delay getting the HPV vaccine until I'm older?

It's best to get vaccinated early, ideally between ages 9-14, before any exposure to HPV infection, to ensure they get their first dose on time. The vaccine only prevents infection; it doesn't treat existing infections.

Q: I don't think I'm at risk for HPV - why should I get vaccinated?

HPV is extremely common and can spread through any kind of sexual contact. Most people show no symptoms but can still develop serious complications or cancer years later. Early vaccination provides the best protection.

Q: Isn't the HPV vaccine just for girls?

No, the vaccine is recommended for all genders. While it was initially focused on preventing cervical cancer, we now know it prevents several types of cancers and diseases affecting all genders.

Q: Where can I get the HPV vaccine in Burnaby?

- Burnaby Health Unit (4946 Canada Way)
- Local pharmacies
- Family doctors' offices
- Public health clinics

Q: How do I schedule an HPV vaccination appointment in BC?

You can:
- Contact your local health unit
- Visit a participating pharmacy
- Call your family doctor
- Call 8-1-1 for location information

Q: What's the process for getting the HPV vaccine through the school program?

The vaccine is offered to all grade 6 students. Parents receive information packages and consent forms through their child's school at the beginning of the school year.

Q: Can international students get the HPV vaccine in BC?

Yes, but they may need to pay if they don't meet the free eligibility criteria. They should contact their local health unit for specific information.

Q: What if I've already started the HPV vaccine series in another province/country?

Bring your immunization records to your healthcare provider. They will determine what additional doses you need to complete the series.

Q: Can I get the HPV vaccine if I'm already sexually active?

Yes. While it's best to get vaccinated before any sexual activity, the vaccine can still protect against HPV types you haven't been exposed to.

Q: How much does the HPV vaccine cost if I'm not eligible for free vaccination?

The HPV vaccine can be purchased at BC pharmacies and travel clinics, and in some cases, you can get the vaccine for free. Contact your local pharmacy for current pricing.

Q: Does private insurance cover the HPV vaccine in BC?

Coverage varies by insurance provider. Check with your insurance company about coverage for HPV vaccination if you're not eligible for the free program.