The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine provides adolescents with safe, effective, and long-lasting protection against six types of cancer.. Vaccines protect them before they are exposed to a disease. That’s why the HPV vaccine is recommended earlier rather than later, to protect adolescents long before they are ever exposed to the virus.
The HPV vaccine can prevent 90% of HPV cancers. The vaccine is safe, with more than 270 million doses administered worldwide since 2006. Reduce your risk by getting yourself or your children vaccinated today. The best time to prevent cancer is before it starts.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
The HPV vaccine protects children from developing certain types of cancers later in life. Two doses of the HPV vaccine are recommended for all boys and girls at ages 11-12; the vaccine can be given as early as age 9.
Children who are vaccinated when they’re older may need three doses instead of two. Teenagers who start the vaccine series on or after their 15th birthday need three shots given over six months. Teenagers who haven’t gotten the vaccine yet should talk to their parent or guardian, and health care provider about getting it as soon as possible.
The HPV vaccine is also recommended through age 26 for both men and women, if they did not get vaccinated when they were younger. Vaccination is not recommended for everyone older than age 26 years. However, some adults age 27 through 45 years who are not already vaccinated may decide to get the HPV vaccine after speaking with their healthcare provider about their risk for new HPV infections and the possible benefits of vaccination.
Getting Your Vaccine
To get the HPV vaccine for yourself or your children, contact your health care provider. The HPV vaccine is covered by most health insurance plans for children and adults.
If you do not have a health care provider, your local health department or CPiA can help you find a vaccine provider in your community. If you or your children are uninsured and cannot afford the vaccine, there are resources available to obtain the vaccine free of charge.
Contact your CPiA program or visit our resources page to learn more.
Don’t delay your vaccine. The time to take action against cancer is now!
