Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common virus that is spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact. Most of the time, the body clears the virus. However, people who do not naturally clear the infection may have health problems that develop, including pre-cancers and cancers of the throat and mouth, cervix, vulva, vagina, penis, or anus as well as genital warts.

On-time vaccination of 11 and 12 year-olds prior to HPV exposure is the best way to prevent these cancers and genital warts. Vaccination can be started at age 9 years and those who did not start or finish the vaccine series can be vaccinated through age 26 years. Additionally, some adults aged 27-45 years who are not fully vaccinated can discuss with their health care provider if vaccination makes sense for them.

• HPV Basics
• HPV Information for Health Professionals