What Is HPV? Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a virus that can cause cervical cancer as well as genital warts. It can spread through sex and from some types of skin-to skin-contact. HPV also can lead to cancer in areas such as the penis, anus, vagina, vulva, and throat. Recent research suggests it might be linked to cardiovascular disease in women. HPV Immunization Schedule The vaccine is recommended for girls and boys 9 to 11 years old, and for older kids who aren't yet vaccinated. The vaccine is given as a series of shots: Children ages 9–14 get the vaccine in 2 shots over a 6- to 12-month period. Teens and young adults (ages 15–26) get it in 3 shots over a 6-month period. Why Is the HPV Vaccine Recommended? HPV can cause some types of cancer and genital warts. The vaccine is an important way to prevent infection and the spread of HPV. It works best when given before someone might be exposed to the virus. The HPV vaccine doesn't protect against all types of HPV. So people who are sexually active should always use condoms. Girls and women should see their gynecologist regularly and get pap smears as recommended (usually starting at age 21). Possible Risks of the HPV Vaccine The most common side effects are soreness, mild fever, swelling, and redness at the injection site. Dizziness, fainting, nausea, and vomiting also can follow a shot. Allergic reactions to the vaccine are rare. When to Delay or Avoid HPV Immunization The vaccine is not recommended if: Your child has a fever. But without a fever, simple colds or other minor illnesses should not prevent immunization. Your child had a serious allergic reaction to the first dose of HPV vaccine or has a yeast allergy. Your daughter is pregnant (she can get it after she gives birth). Caring for Your Child After HPV Immunization Your child may have a fever, soreness, and some swelling and redness in the area where the shot was given. Check with your doctor to see if you can give either acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain or fever, and to find out the right dose. When Should I Call the Doctor? Call the doctor if: You aren't sure if your child can get the vaccine. There are problems after the immunization. Back to Articles Related Articles Word! Vaccine A vaccine is another word for what most kids call a shot. Read More Do I Need a Pelvic Exam if I Had the HPV Vaccine? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More Do I Have to Get All My HPV Vaccine Shots? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More Can Getting the HPV Vaccine Help If I Already Have Genital Warts? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More Does the HPV Vaccine Cause Paralysis? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More A Kid's Guide to Shots If you're old enough to read this, you've probably had most of your shots. But even bigger kids may need a shot once in a while. Find out more about them in this article for kids. Read More STDs Parents should learn about the most common STDs, how they spread, and how they're diagnosed and treated. Read More Genital Warts (HPV) Genital warts usually are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which also can lead to cervical cancer and other types of cancer. A vaccine can prevent HPV infection. Read More Can You Still Get Genital Warts If You've Had All the HPV Shots? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More HPV Vaccine The HPV vaccine can help protect against the virus that causes genital warts and may lead to some kinds of cancer. Find out more in this article for teens. Read More Should Girls Who Aren't Sexually Active Be Vaccinated Against HPV? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More Genital Warts (HPV) Genital warts usually are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which also can lead to cervical cancer and other types of cancer. The HPV vaccine can prevent HPV infection. Read More 5 Tips for Surviving Shots If you're afraid of shots, you're not alone. Next time your doc asks you to roll up your sleeve, try these tips. Read More Immunization Schedule Which vaccines does your child need and when? Use this immunization schedule as a handy reference. Read More Your Child's Immunizations Immunizations protect kids from many dangerous diseases. Find out what vaccines your child needs to grow up healthy. Read More How Vaccines Help (Video) Vaccines help keep kids healthy, but many parents still have questions about them. Get answers here. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.