Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection, with more
than 100 different strains. HPV spreads through intimate skin-to-skin contact, and while many infections
clear up on their own, persistent high-risk types can lead to serious health problems, such as genital
warts and various cancers, including cervical, anal, and throat cancers.
One of the most effective tools in preventing HPV-related diseases is vaccination. Gardasil-9 is
an FDA approved and the most widespread used vaccine against HPV types 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and
58, which are most associated with lesions and cancers. The vaccine is recommended for preteens (both
girls and boys) around the ages of 11 to 12 for maximum efficacy. According to the CDC, if you receive
the HPV vaccine before 15 years old, you receive 2 doses at 6-12 months apart. If you receive the
vaccine after 15 years old, you receive 3 doses – the first dose, the second dose 1-2 months later, and
the third dose at 6 months.
The HPV vaccine is typically recommended up to age 26. This is because age groups older than
26 have likely already been exposed to one or more of the HPV strains, although they may still benefit
from protection against strains they haven’t yet encountered. Importantly, the HPV vaccine only
prevents new infections but does not treat existing HPV infections or diseases.
The HPV vaccine is not recommended for those with a severe, anaphylactic allergic reaction to a
vaccine component (baker’s yeast) or following a prior dose of the vaccine. It is also not recommended
for use during pregnancy. People known to be pregnant should delay vaccine initiation. Adverse reaction
to the vaccine is rare, and mostly consists of temporary soreness at the site of injection.
