Should Kids & Teens Who Aren't Sexually Active Be Vaccinated Against HPV?

What Is the HPV Vaccine?

The HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine is recommended for girls and boys. It helps protects against human papillomavirus (HPV), a virus that can cause different types of cancer (such as cancer of the cervix, penis, anus, vagina, vulva, and throat) and genital warts.

If Kids Aren't Sexually Active, Why Would They Need the HPV Vaccine?

The vaccine has the best chance of protecting against infection if a person gets the series of shots before becoming sexually active. It's recommended for girls and boys 11–12 years old (though kids as young as 9 also can get it), given in 2 shots over a 6- to 12-month period.

Older kids, teens, and young adults (ages 15–26) who aren't yet vaccinated can get the vaccine in 3 shots over a 6-month period. People with weak immune systems also get 3 shots, including those 9–14 years old.

Teens or young adults who didn't start or complete the series of shots can get it up to age 45. (It is recommended up to age 26. After that, a person can decide with their doctor if it’s a good idea for them.)

What Else Should I Know?

HPV is very common, affecting most sexually active people at some point in their lives, often in their teens and twenties.

Some strains of HPV that spread through sexual contact can cause cervical cancer, as well as cancers of the penis, anus, vagina, vulva, mouth, and throat. Research suggests that HPV might also be linked to cardiovascular disease in women.

Kids and teens who aren't sexually active now likely will be at some point later in life. People may get HPV in their teen or young adult years, and then develop cancer years later. So getting the vaccine on time can help protect your kids' health now and later on.