What the HPV Vaccine Does
Prevents infection from the most harmful HPV types (especially types 16 & 18, responsible for ~70% of cervical cancers).
Protects against genital warts (types 6 & 11).
Reduces the risk of multiple cancers in all genders.
Most countries now use Gardasil 9, which covers 9 HPV types and offers the broadest protection.
👥 Who Should Get It?
Routine
Kids aged 9–12 (often at 11–12). Works best when given before any exposure to HPV.
Catch-up
Teens and young adults up to age 26 if not vaccinated earlier.
Adults 27–45
Vaccination can still help in some cases, but effectiveness is lower if already exposed. It’s usually decided based on individual risk factors.
💉 Dose Schedule
Ages 9–14: 2 doses
Ages 15–26: 3 doses
(Schedule may vary slightly by country.)
🔒 Safety
Very well studied and extremely safe.
Common mild side effects: sore arm, mild fever, headache.
Serious side effects are rare.
🛡️ Why It Matters
HPV causes over 90% of cervical cancers.
Vaccination can prevent tens of thousands of cancers each year.
