If you knew there was a vaccine that could protect your children against cancers that they’re going to be at risk for later in their lives, would you have your children immunized?
I did. The vaccine I’m referring to prevents infection by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Forms of the virus can cause:
There are 150 viruses in the HPV virus group. Here are things you should know about the human papillomavirus:
The vaccine prevents HPV infection. It cannot cure an HPV infection that has already occurred. For that reason, HPV vaccination is recommended early in life for girls and boys at 11–12 years of age.
We can’t protect our children against much anymore. But we can help protect them against cancer-causing HPV infection. Why take chances with their lives? Please get your children immunized against HPV at ages 11–12.
The CDC recommends all boys and girls get two doses of the HPV vaccine at ages 11 or 12. Children who get the vaccine before the age of 12 only need two doses. Children who get the first dose on or after their 15th birthday need three doses. Up to age 26 years, even after they become sexually active, it’s still not too late for them to get the HPV vaccine (see sidebar).
Learn more about HPV and the HPV vaccines.
Editor's Update: This article was first published September 29, 2015. It was most recently reviewed and updated January 10, 2020.