HPV Vaccine (Gardasil 9) — Mississauga
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection and the leading cause of cervical cancer, as well as a major cause of oropharyngeal (throat), anal, vulvar, vaginal, and penile cancers. Gardasil 9 protects against 9 strains of HPV responsible for the vast majority of HPV-related cancers and genital warts.
Gardasil 9 is available at Peel Travel Clinic & Saldanha Health Centre for adolescents and adults up to age 45.
Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?
Highest Benefit
- Children and adolescents aged 9–14 (ideally before any sexual activity)
- Adolescents aged 15–26 who missed the school program
- Men who have sex with men (MSM) — at any age, up to 45
Also Consider
- Adults 27–45 who have not been exposed to all 9 covered strains
- Immunocompromised individuals (HIV, transplant, cancer treatment) — discuss with physician
- Those with previous HPV diagnosis — you may not be immune to all 9 strains
Gardasil 9 Details
Vaccine Profile
- •Brand: Gardasil 9
- •Type: Non-live (recombinant VLP)
- •Strains covered: HPV 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, 58
- •Ages 9–14: 2 doses (0 and 6–12 months)
- •Ages 15–45: 3 doses (0, 1–2 months, 6 months)
- •Efficacy: ~98% against covered HPV strains when given before exposure
Cost & Coverage
- •Grade 7 students: Free through Ontario school immunization program
- •Adults (private pay): ~$200–$230 per dose
- •Total adult cost: ~$600–$690 for full 3-dose series
- •May be partially covered by private insurance — check your benefits plan
- •Official receipts provided for insurance submission
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the HPV vaccine covered in Ontario for adults?
In Ontario, Gardasil 9 is provided free through the school-based immunization program for students in Grade 7 (around age 12). For adults who missed vaccination in school, Gardasil 9 is not covered by OHIP and is an out-of-pocket cost — approximately $200–$230 per dose (3 doses required for adults starting the series after age 15). Some private insurance plans and employer benefit packages cover it. We provide official receipts for all vaccinations for insurance submission.
Can adults get the HPV vaccine? Is it too late?
Health Canada approved Gardasil 9 for adults up to age 45. Adults aged 27–45 can be vaccinated but the benefit is lower than in adolescents because many adults in this age group have already been exposed to some HPV strains. However, if you have not been exposed to all 9 strains covered by Gardasil 9, there is still meaningful benefit. A discussion with our physician about your personal risk factors will help determine if vaccination is worthwhile for you.
How many doses of HPV vaccine do I need?
The number of doses depends on the age you start the series. Ages 9–14: 2 doses (0 and 6–12 months apart) — this accelerated schedule is as effective as 3 doses. Ages 15 and older: 3 doses (0, 1–2 months, 6 months). Immunocompromised individuals always need 3 doses regardless of age. If you started the series and didn't complete it, you can resume where you left off — you do not need to start over.
Does the HPV vaccine protect against all HPV strains?
Gardasil 9 covers 9 strains of HPV: HPV 6, 11 (responsible for ~90% of genital warts) and HPV 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, 58 (responsible for ~90% of HPV-related cancers including cervical, oropharyngeal/throat, anal, vulvar, vaginal, and penile cancers). Over 100 HPV strains exist, but the 9 covered by Gardasil 9 account for the vast majority of serious HPV-related disease. Regular Pap tests and HPV screening remain important even after vaccination.
Is the HPV vaccine relevant for travel?
HPV is a sexually transmitted infection and the risk exists in all countries. The vaccine is recommended for all adolescents and unvaccinated adults regardless of travel plans. From a travel perspective, HPV transmission risk may be higher during longer stays abroad, particularly among travelers who may have new sexual partners. The vaccine is not destination-specific but is an important part of overall preventive health for all adults.
Get Gardasil 9 in Mississauga
HPV vaccination for adolescents and adults up to age 45 at Peel Travel Clinic.
Call (905) 890-2757Other Vaccines at Peel Travel Clinic
Disclaimer: HPV vaccine eligibility and benefit vary by age and individual circumstances. This page is for general guidance only and does not replace a consultation with our physician. Regular cervical screening (Pap tests) remains important even after HPV vaccination.