All Canadian girls between 9 and 13 years old should receive the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, according to a new statement by the Canadian Paediatric Society. The CPS also recommends that girls at higher risk of early sexual activity-those who are street-involved, or under the care of child welfare-be targeted.

"HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection," said Dr. Lindy Samson, principal author of the statement, HPV vaccine for children and adolescents, published in Paediatrics & Child Health this month. "The HPV vaccine prevents girls and women from getting infected with HPV. The vaccine significantly lowers the risk of cervical cancer."

Between 10 and 29 per cent of Canadians are infected with human papillomavirus, which is most common in people under 25 years old and most commonly acquired during the first five years of sexual activity. HPV is the major cause of cervical cancer. The vaccine must be given before any sexual activity begins to effectively prevent the long-term complications of HPV infection. Between 17 and 23 per cent of children and teens have had their first sexual intercourse by Grade 9.

"Along with the vaccine, enhanced sexual education is critical so that girls don't get a false sense of security," said Dr. Samson, a member of the CPS Infectious Diseases and Immunization Committee. "Girls and young women need to be educated on how to have the safest possible sexual relationships in order to minimize their risk of acquiring any sexually transmitted infections. In addition, sexually active vaccinated girls must still participate in cervical cancer screening programs, such as routine Pap smears."

The CPS also recommends a catch-up program for girls 13 years and over, for whom the vaccine is approved. Several provinces have already implemented vaccination programs.

"The vaccine has been proven to be safe for girls and women over the age of 9 years," said Dr. Samson.

The first vaccine against HPV-which protects against four strains of the virus-was approved for use in Canada in 2006.

The Canadian Paediatric Society is a national advocacy association that promotes the health needs of children and youth. Founded in 1922, the CPS represents more than 2,500 paediatricians, paediatric subspecialists and other child health professionals across Canada. Paediatrics & Child Health is the peer-reviewed journal of the CPS.

cps.ca