The HPV Vaccine
The HPV vaccine protects against human papillomavirus (HPV), a virus that can cause cervical cancer in women, penile cancer in men, and anal, head and neck cancers in both men and women. Almost all cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV, leading to as many as 4,000 deaths a year.
The HPV vaccine has been available since 2006. It protects against nine types of cancer.
Recommended Doses for Children and Teenagers
The HPV vaccine is recommended for children at age 11 or 12 but can be started as early as age 9.
Most children should get two doses of the HPV vaccine about six months apart.
People older than 15 may need three doses.
For more detail, see HPV Vaccine Recommendations (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).
Side Effects
The HPV vaccine, like all vaccines, can cause side effects. Most of them are mild and temporary.
If side effects happen from the HPV vaccine, they most often include soreness, redness or swelling where the vaccine is given, fever or a headache.
Trustworthy Resources for More Information
- Human Papillomavirus: The Disease and Vaccines (Children's Hospital of Philadelphia)
- HPV Vaccine Information Sheet (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
Have questions about vaccines for your children?
As a parent, you want to make the best choices for your children. Doctors recommend vaccines because they protect your child from serious, preventable diseases. Many of these illnesses have no cure, so prevention is the best defense.
Vaccines are thoroughly tested, and serious side effects are extremely rare. Millions of children are safely vaccinated each year.
If you have questions, get real answers. Start a conversation with your doctor today.