What is HPV?
HPV, or Human Papillomavirus, is the most common Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) in the United States.
How does the virus spread? What does it cause?
HPV can be spread through vaginal, oral, or anal sex with someone infected with the virus.
An HPV infection could have no symptoms, cause genital warts, or cause cancer.
Watch A Video
Is There a Vaccine?
Yes! the vaccine for HPV is called Gardasil.
It is more than 97% effective at preventing HPV infection and HPV-related Cancer.
However, the HPV vaccination rate among adolescents is surprisingly low. Are you vaccinated?
Dr. Nishant Agrawal, MD - Chief of Otolaryngology– Head and Neck Surgery at the University of Chicago
“HPV vaccination is the most important way to protect against cervical cancer, some throat cancers, and genital warts.”
Vaccination Schedule
The HPV vaccine is the most effective at preventing infection and HPV-related cancer when given before a person is exposed to HPV.
9-14 Years Old
Dose 1
Dose 2: 6-12 months later.
15-26 Years Old
Dose 1
Dose 2: 1-2 months later.
Dose 3: 6-12 months later.
26-45 Years Old
If you have not received the vaccine, discuss options with your primary care provider.
What’s Next?
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Ask a parent or guardian if you received your HPV Vaccinations. If you have not, ask your pediatrician or primary care provider for guidance.
Many insurance plans cover the vaccine, and there are some programs that help people without insurance receive the vaccine at low or no cost.
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If you would like to share this information with your students or your school, download our free toolkit here. It contains answers to common questions, short slideshows, a curated set of videos, and printable activities.
The kit also includes a short pre- and post-lesson “test” that will help us gauge the effectiveness of our materials.
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Would you like members of our team to deliver an engaging presentation about HPV and the importance of vaccination to your students during an assembly?
Please email HPVInformed@gmail.com and we will be in touch shortly.
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Would you like to lead an HPV vaccination event through your organization? Or would you like members from our team to deliver engaging presentations about HPV?
Please email us at HPVInformed@gmail.com and we will be in touch shortly.