06.05.26 Public Health Education Topic: Genital Warts, HPV

Per CDC

Key points

• HPV, or human papillomavirus, is a common virus that can cause cancers later in life.

• You can protect your child from these cancers with HPV vaccination.

• Nearly everyone who is not vaccinated will get HPV at some point in their lives.

Most HPV infections (9 out of 10) go away by themselves within 2 years. But sometimes, HPV infections will last longer and can cause some cancers. HPV infections can cause cancers of the:

• Cervix, vagina, and vulva

• Penis

• Anus

• Back of the throat (called oropharyngeal cancer), including the base of the tongue and tonsils

Every year in the United States, HPV causes about 36,000 cases of cancer in both men and women.

Prevention

Protect your child with vaccination. CDC recommends 2 doses of HPV vaccine at ages 11–12 years. HPV vaccination can be started at age 9 years.

• Children who get the first dose before their 15th birthday need only 2 doses.

• Teens who get the first dose on or after their 15th birthday need 3 doses.

The HPV vaccine series is most effective when given before a person is exposed to the virus.

To learn more please visit: About HPV | HPV | CDC