The HPV Vaccine

HPV stands for human papillomavirus. It is a common virus that can be spread through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. Each year, over 10,000 people get cervical cancer from HPV. Fortunately, HPV vaccination provides safe, effective, and lasting protection against HPV infections. It’s a series of three shots that protect against the types of HPV that most commonly cause cancer and genital warts.

The HPV vaccine is very effective in protecting against HPV infections and related diseases. This includes reducing the risk of cervical cancer by 90 percent! Since the vaccine was first recommended in 2006, the number of HPV infections and related diseases has decreased by more than 80 percent among teen girls and young adult women. And it’s safe!

The CDC recommends that all children ages 11-12 should receive the HPV vaccine alongside their other routine vaccines. “Catch-up” HPV vaccinations for people who were not previously vaccinated as adolescents are recommended for everyone through age 26. The vaccine is most effective when given to individuals before they become sexually active, but it can still benefit those who are.

If you’re an adult aged 27-45 and you have not previously had an HPV vaccine, talk with your provider to see if the vaccine is right for you. If you don’t remember if you have, it may be safe to receive it again.