HPV Vaccine Information

Two doses of HPV vaccine are recommended for children at ages 11–12; the vaccine can be given starting at age 9 years. Children who start the HPV vaccine series on or after their 15th birthday need three doses given over 6 months. If your teen hasn’t received the vaccine yet, talk to their doctor about getting it as soon as possible.
 
HPV vaccination is also recommended for everyone through age 26 years, if they were not adequately vaccinated already.

HPV vaccination is not recommended for everyone older than age 26 years. However, some adults age 27-45 years who were not already vaccinated may decide to get the HPV vaccine after speaking with their doctor about their risk for new HPV infections and the possible benefits of vaccination. HPV vaccination in this age range provides less benefit, as more people have already been exposed to HPV. Common side effects from the HPV shot are mild and go away quickly. The most common side effects include:
    

 
• Pain, redness or swelling in the arm where the shot was given
• Fever
• Dizziness or fainting
• Nausea
• Headache or fatigue
• Muscle or joint pain

The National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program may provide compensation for: (1) anaphylaxis, which is an acute allergic reaction to the antigen in the vaccine; (2) Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine, known as SIRVA, which is a sometimes-painful injury to the shoulder where the vaccine was administered, and (3) Vasovagal Syncope which is when a person faints because his or her body overreacts to certain triggers, such as the sight of blood or extreme emotional distress.