Human Papillomavirus (hpv)

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Introduction

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common virus. Certain types of HPV cause warts, and some cause cancers of the cervix, vagina, vulva, penis, anus, or the back of the throat (oropharynx).

How HPV Spreads & Who is Affected

HPV is spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact. People spread HPV even if they don’t have symptoms.
Most people will be exposed to HPV at some point in their lives. There are about 13 million new HPV infections per year in the U.S.
Although many HPV infections go away on their own, some types can stay in the body and cause cancer over many years. About 37,000 people in the U.S. find out they have HPV-related cancer every year.

Symptoms & Health Effects

Most HPV infections do not cause symptoms and go away without treatment.
Some types of HPV can cause cancer, often many years after infection.
Other types of HPV cause genital warts.

Prevention

HPV-related cancers can be prevented in several ways:

HPV vaccination is the most effective tool to prevent HPV-related cancers and genital warts.
Get screened regularly for cervical cancer by Pap tests and HPV tests. There are no screening tests available for other parts of the body vulnerable to HPV infection.
Don’t smoke tobacco, as it can increase the risk of getting some HPV-related cancers.

HPV Vaccination: Who, When, & How

Who should get vaccinated

Routine vaccination is recommended for kids 9-12 years of age.
Catch-up vaccination is recommended for those through age 26 who were not fully vaccinated earlier.
For adults ages 27–45, vaccination may be considered for those not fully vaccinated earlier. Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more.

Schedule

Age when 1st dose is given	How many doses?	Timing of next dose?
Ages 9-14 (most persons)	2 doses	Second dose 6-12 months after the first
Age 15 and older, or people who are immunocompromised	3 doses	0, 1-2 months, and 6 months

Safety & Effectiveness

HPV vaccines in use (such as Gardasil-9) are safe and effective. HPV vaccination can prevent more than 90% of HPV cancers when given at the recommended ages. Extensive studies and ongoing monitoring show that the benefits far outweigh the risks.
HPV vaccine can cause pain, swelling, or redness in the arm where the shot was given. Other common side effects include mild fever, headache, and tiredness. Severe allergic reactions are extremely rare (about 1-2 in a million).
Though it’s not common, some preteens or teens faint after getting a shot because they are feeling anxious or scared. Fainting can happen after any type of injection, not just HPV vaccine.
Starting vaccination before sexual activity gives the strongest protection.

What to Do If You've Already Had HPV

The vaccine does not treat existing HPV infections or HPV-related disease.
But vaccination can protect against other HPV types you have not encountered.
Continue recommended cancer screenings (Pap, HPV tests) even if vaccinated.

Additional Tips & Resources

If your child is due for vaccination, schedule both doses now. · Find clinics offering HPV vaccination in your area on My Turn.
The vaccine can be given at the same visit as other routine vaccinations.
In California, families without health insurance or with health insurance that does not cover the cost of vaccines can get free vaccinations for kids and teens through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. Ask your clinic or local health department about VFC. · If you are covered by the California Family PACT program, you can get free HPV vaccines. Ask your provider.