Vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV)

Vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV) is recommended for both boys and girls starting at the age of 11 or 12 years old. The vaccine is given in a series of two or three doses, depending on the age of the individual when they receive their first dose.

The HPV vaccine is highly effective at preventing infection with the types of HPV that are most likely to cause cancer and genital warts. It is recommended even if someone has already been sexually active, as they may not have been exposed to all of the types of HPV that the vaccine protects against.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends routine HPV vaccination for all boys and girls at age 11 or 12 years, as well as for males through age 26 and females through age 26 who have not already been vaccinated. It is also recommended for men and women with certain medical conditions or who have weakened immune systems, as well as for men who have sex with men. It’s important to discuss the HPV vaccine with your doctor. The vaccination of the HPV prevents you from getting cancer!