Current vaccination
Human papilloma virus, HPV
HPV (human papilloma virus) causes cutaneous and genital infections. A genital HPV infection can progress to cancer of the cervix, vagina, vulva, penis or anus. Additionally papilloma virus can cause head and neck cancer.
There are over 200 known papilloma viruses. Approximately 40 of those can cause a genital HPV infection. The virus is usually spread during intercourse, and wearing a condom reduces the risk of infection. The best way to prevent infection is the HPV vaccine, which protects effectively from most of the papilloma virus types that cause malignant changes. The vaccine works best when it is given before the start of sexual activity. The HPV vaccine is included in the National Vaccination Programme for 5. and 6. year pupils.