Immunization

Human Papillomavirus

The Disease

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted virus in the US. More than 50% of sexually active men and women are infected with HPV at some time in their lives. There are about 40 different types of HPV that can cause infection. Certain types can cause genital warts in women and men, as well as serious health problems such as cervical cancer in women and other cancers in the genital area in women and men.

 

The Immunization

HPV vaccine can prevent most genital warts and most cases of cervical cancer. HPV vaccine is routinely recommended for both boys and girls in a 3-dose series. The first dose is given at 11-12 years of age, a second dose is given 2 months after the first dose, and a 3rd dose is given approximately 4 months later. The vaccine is also recommended for men up to 21 and women up to 26 years of age who did not receive it when they were younger.

 

Younger children respond better to the immunization. This is why it is recommended at 11-12 years. It is also important to get the vaccine series before the first sexual encounter so that it can provide the most protection. Even with just one partner, the risk of being exposed to HPV is high.

 

AAP Vaccine Recommendations

• For healthcare providers seeking the most current status of AAP and CDC recommendations, please visit the Vaccine Status Table from Red Book Online. (Exit site)
• Current policy- AAP Red Book: Guidelines for Administration of HPV Vaccine (Log-in required, exit site)
• Background information- AAP Policy Statement: HPV Vaccine Recommendations
• Implementation Guidance- Implementing HPV Vaccination in an Office Setting

 

Other Resources

• HPV Vaccine Information Statement (Exit Site)

• CDC HPV Page (Exit Site)

• Immunization Action Coalition HPV page (Exit Site)

• National Network for Immunization Information HPV page (Exit Site)
• CDC: Podcast - New HPV Recommendations (Exit Site)

 

Last Updated: 7/13/2012