Ministerial Message for Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Prevention Week - October 1-7, 2017

October 1-7, 2017 marks the first-ever Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Prevention Week.

HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. In fact, it is estimated that 75% of sexually active Canadian men and women will have a sexually transmitted HPV infection at some point in their lives.

Most HPV infections occur without any symptoms and go away without treatment. However, some HPV infections can cause warts or cancer. In fact, virtually all cervical cancers are caused by an HPV infection.

The best way to prevent HPV is by getting vaccinated. The vaccine is available free of charge to girls and boys in all provinces and territories. While vaccination is the best protection, it does not protect against all types of HPV, so it is important to practise safer sex and use condoms to decrease the chances of getting HPV or passing it on to your partner.

I commend the Federation of Medical Women of Canada for spearheading the world's first HPV Prevention Week to bring attention to this important issue. I encourage you to join the conversation using #CANADAvsHPV, and learn more about how to protect yourself from HPV and other vaccine-preventable diseases by visiting Canada.ca/vaccines.

Together, we can raise awareness about the health risks of HPV.

The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor
Minister of Health