Your one stop Vaccination Clinic

HPV Vaccine (Human Papilloma Virus)

HPV Vaccine (Human Papilloma Virus)

We provide a full range of travel vaccinations and medication

HPV vaccine

A common virus with over 200 variants, most which are harmless. However, some variants can lead to cervical cancer, genital warts and other types of cancers. It is best to get vaccinated before you have sex for the first time as this means you are protected before you are first exposed to HPV. You will still benefit from the vaccine if you have had sex.

Vaccination Pricing

£175 per dose ( 2 or 3 doses per course)
£350 per course (2 dose)
£525 per course (3 dose)

Signs & Symptoms

  • Warts on the skin (hands, feet, or other areas)

  • Genital warts (small lumps or bumps around the genitals or anus)

  • Abnormal changes in cells, often found during routine screenings like a smear test

  • Fatigue

  • Some show no symptoms at all

Hawne Chemist & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 0121 501 3518

Email: westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

177 Stourbridge Rd, Halesowen, B63 3UD

Bills Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01384 872117

Email: westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

29 High St, Kinver, Stourbridge, DY7 6HF

Millard and Bullock Chemist & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01902 883 182

Email: westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

Castle Street, Bilston, WV14 9DD

The Vaccination

Ages (Years) Doses Required Schedule Boost required at
12-14 years 2 5-13 months apart Up to day before*
15-44 years 3 2nd dose: 2 months apart
3rd dose: 6 months from 1st dose		 N/A

HPV, or human papillomavirus, is a common group of viruses that infect the skin and mucous membranes. There are over 100 different types of HPV, and while many are harmless and resolve without treatment, certain strains can cause serious health problems. These include genital warts and various forms of cancer, most notably cervical cancer, as well as cancers of the anus, penis, throat, vulva, and vagina. HPV is one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide, with the majority of sexually active individuals likely to contract it at some point in their lives. Often, the virus causes no symptoms and clears naturally within a couple of years. However, in some cases, high-risk strains persist and lead to cellular changes that can develop into cancer over time. HPV affects both men and women and can be transmitted through all types of sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex.

HPV is primarily spread through direct skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. This includes vaginal, anal, and oral sex, as well as genital contact without penetration. Because the virus can be transmitted even when an infected person shows no signs or symptoms, it can be difficult to prevent through behavioural means alone. Using condoms can reduce the risk of transmission but doesn’t eliminate it entirely, as HPV can affect areas not covered by a condom. The most effective method of prevention is vaccination. The HPV vaccine is offered to children and teenagers before they become sexually active, as it is most effective when administered prior to exposure to the virus. Regular cervical screening (smear tests) also plays a vital role in prevention by identifying and treating abnormal cells before they turn cancerous. Avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy immune system, and limiting the number of sexual partners can also help lower the risk.

Most HPV infections are asymptomatic, meaning they do not cause any noticeable symptoms and often go undetected. In fact, many people with HPV never know they have it, and their immune system clears the virus naturally within a year or two. However, some strains can cause visible symptoms such as genital warts—flesh-coloured growths that appear on or around the genitals, anus, or mouth. These are usually caused by low-risk types of HPV and, while not dangerous, can be distressing and require treatment. High-risk HPV types are of greater concern because they can cause changes in cells that may eventually lead to cancer. These cellular changes are usually detected through routine cervical screening rather than through symptoms. In later stages, if cancer develops, symptoms will depend on the location but may include bleeding, pain, or lumps. Early detection and prevention are key to managing the risks associated with high-risk HPV types.

The HPV vaccine provides long-lasting protection against the most common and dangerous strains of the virus. Research suggests that immunity remains strong for at least 10 to 15 years after vaccination, and there is currently no evidence that a booster dose is needed. The vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies against the virus, thereby preventing infection if exposed in the future. It is most effective when given before any exposure to HPV, which is why it is routinely offered to children aged 12 to 13 in the UK through the NHS school vaccination programme. The standard course typically involves two doses for those under 15 and three doses for individuals aged 15 or older or those with weakened immune systems. By preventing the most high-risk strains—especially types 16 and 18, which are responsible for the majority of HPV-related cancers—the vaccine offers long-term protection against serious disease.

Unlike some travel vaccines, the HPV vaccine is not typically associated with travel to specific countries. Instead, it is a globally recommended vaccine due to the widespread nature of the virus. HPV is common worldwide, and its transmission is not linked to geographical region but rather to sexual activity. However, in some lower-income countries, access to HPV vaccination and cervical screening is limited, which contributes to higher rates of HPV-related cancers. Therefore, while there is no specific travel guidance requiring the vaccine, being vaccinated offers protection regardless of where you travel, especially if you anticipate forming new sexual relationships abroad. Vaccination is advised for everyone who hasn’t yet received it, and some countries may offer the vaccine to different age groups or under varying eligibility criteria, so it’s worth checking local public health advice if you are living or staying abroad for an extended period.

The HPV vaccine is considered very safe and has undergone extensive testing to ensure its effectiveness and tolerability. Like most vaccines, it can cause mild side effects, which usually resolve within a day or two. The most common side effects include redness, swelling, or tenderness at the injection site. Some people may experience mild fever, headaches, dizziness, or feeling faint shortly after vaccination. These symptoms are generally short-lived and not cause for concern. Rarely, people may experience an allergic reaction, though this is extremely uncommon and medical staff are trained to manage such incidents if they arise. Overall, the benefits of vaccination far outweigh any potential risks, particularly when considering the long-term protection it offers against several forms of cancer. The vaccine does not contain any live virus and cannot cause HPV infection, making it a safe and powerful tool in reducing HPV-related diseases worldwide.

Use the map below to identify areas of risk for travel.

Simply call the clinic of your choice or send us an email enquiry, and our travel specialists will get back to you as soon as possible.

We’re Waiting To Help You

The West Midlands Travel Clinic offers a wide range of vaccines and travel vaccinations.

Contact us today to get your and your loved ones protected.

Same Day Appointments

We are pleased to offer same-day appointments at the West Midlands Travel Clinic, to ensure you receive prompt and efficient care when you need it most.

Expert Pharmacists

Our team includes expert pharmacists who are dedicated to providing you with personalised and professional healthcare advice.

Competitive Pricing

We offer competitive pricing on our vaccinations to ensure that essential healthcare is both affordable and accessible to everyone.

Striving to cover all your health and medical treatment requirements

We offer a wide range of medical treatments for you and your loved ones.

get in touch