Overview
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus that nearly everyone will get at some point in their life. The virus is spread through intimate contact—skin-to-skin contact. About 90% of the time, HPV goes away on its own, but some types may cause warts or cancer. There are many different types of HPV viruses; the HPV vaccine is effective at preventing cancer caused by the HPV types that most often lead to cancer.
Childhood Recommendations
Children should get two doses of the HPV vaccine between 11 and 12 years old, but they can start the series as young as nine.
If a child gets the first dose before their 15th birthday, they will only need two doses of the vaccine. However, if they get the first dose on or after their 15th birthday, they need 3 doses of the vaccine.
The vaccine is the most effective if it’s given before the person is exposed to the virus, which is why it’s recommedned at a young age.
Adult recommendations
Everyone aged 26 and younger who was not vaccinated as an adolescent should get vaccinated for HPV.
Some adults aged 27–45 years may get vaccinated based on a discussion with their doctor. HPV vaccination provides less protection to people in this age group because they’ve most likely already been exposed to HPV at some point in their lifetime.
People aged 46 and over are not recommended to get the HPV vaccine.
Immunization schedules
Childhood schedules:
Adult schedule:
Additional information about the HPV vaccine
HPV Vaccine Information Statement
CDC’s HPV main page