Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine

Two HPV vaccines are available, Gardasil (HPV4) and Cervarix (HPV2). These vaccines protect against two types of HPV, which cause 70 percent of cervical cancers. HPV4 also protects against two types of HPV that cause 90 percent of genital warts.

HPV vaccine for females (9-26 years):

Either HPV vaccine is routinely recommended for girls aged 11-12 years. Both vaccines are licensed for females aged 9-26 years. Health care providers may give the vaccine to girls as young as nine years. HPV vaccine offers the best protection if given before sexual activity starts.

HPV vaccine for males (9-26 years):

HPV4 is now licensed for males aged 9-26 years to prevent genital warts. It's not recommended for all boys and men like it is for women. Health care providers can offer the vaccine to males and give it on request. Parents can talk to their son's health care provider about HPV vaccine. Young men can also talk to their health care provider about the vaccine.

Catch-up vaccination:

HPV4 and HPV2 are recommended for females aged 13-26 years who did not get the vaccine when they were younger.
HPV4 may be given to males aged 9-26 years to reduce the chances of getting genital warts.

HPV vaccine is given as a three-dose series:

First dose: now.
Second dose: two months after first dose.
Third dose: six months after first dose.

HPV vaccine is not required to attend school in Washington State. Additional booster doses are not recommended. HPV vaccine may be given at the same time as other vaccines.

State-Supplied Vaccine