Why is the HPV vaccine given at 9 to 13 years old?

Because it prevents infection rather than clearing it, so it has to be given before any exposure. The immune response at this age is also stronger than in later teens, which is why some programmes need only one or two doses when given early.

Is the HPV vaccine given to boys as well?

In many countries yes. HPV causes cancers in boys too, and vaccinating both reduces how much the virus circulates. Some programmes still vaccinate girls only, so it depends on where you live.

How many doses does my child need?

It depends on age at the first dose and on the national programme. Starting before 15 usually means one or two doses; starting later usually means three. The UK now runs a single-dose programme. Your local schedule is the one to follow.

Disease

HPV infection

A very common virus that usually clears by itself but can cause cancer years later.

Reviewed by TinyDose editorial teamLast reviewed June 2026

What it is

A very common virus that usually clears by itself but can cause cancer years later.

Main symptom

Usually none at all, which is why infection goes unnoticed

How it spreads

Spreads through skin-to-skin contact, most often sexual contact, and does not require intercourse.

Prevented by

HPV

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a family of very common viruses. Most infections cause no symptoms and clear on their own within a couple of years. A small number persist, and over one or two decades those persistent infections can cause cancer of the cervix, and less commonly of the throat, anus, penis and vulva. The vaccine is given in early adolescence, well before any exposure, because it prevents infection rather than treating it.

Symptoms

Usually none at all, which is why infection goes unnoticed
Some types cause warts on the hands, feet or genitals
Cervical changes are found by screening, not by symptoms

How it spreads

Spreads through skin-to-skin contact, most often sexual contact, and does not require intercourse.

IncubationMonths to years before any change appears, and cancer takes 10 to 20 years to develop

Why it's serious

An HPV infection in itself is not an illness to fear, and the great majority resolve quietly. The vaccine matters because the small fraction that persist cause a cancer that is far easier to prevent than to treat.

Cervical cancer, the most common HPV-related cancer
Cancers of the throat, anus, penis and vulva
Genital warts, from different HPV types than the cancer-causing ones

Most at risk: Nearly everyone is exposed at some point. Long-term risk is highest where infection persists rather than clearing, which is more likely with a weakened immune system.

How to prevent HPV infection

Vaccination is the most effective protection. HPV infection is prevented by:

VaccineHPVGiven in early adolescence to prevent the infections that cause cervical cancer.About the HPV vaccine →

Treatment

There is no treatment for the virus itself. Warts and abnormal cervical cells can be treated, and cervical screening in adulthood finds changes early. Vaccination plus screening is the combination health services rely on.

Common questions

Sources

Human papillomavirus vaccines: WHO position paper · WHO, 2022.
HPV and Cancer · CDC, 2026.

Information on this page is compiled from authoritative public health sources and written in TinyDose's own voice. It is intended for general understanding only. Always follow your pediatrician's guidance.

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This information is provided by TinyDose for general understanding only and is not medical advice. Vaccine names, ages and doses can vary by country, brand and individual circumstances. Always follow the guidance of your pediatrician or local health authority for your child’s vaccination schedule.