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What is HPV?

Human papilloma virus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI). It is estimated that one in every four Americans has HPV. Most are in their late teens and 20s. Many people will never know they have HPV, because it usually causes no symptoms. But for some people, it can lead to serious health problems, including certain cancers and genital warts.

HPV Is Preventable!

Most HPV cases can be prevented with the HPV vaccine. The HPV vaccine is a safe and effective way to help protect both males and females from HPV.

HPV

Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?

Both boys and girls should get the vaccine starting at age 9. Getting the vaccine early offers the most effective protection against HPV and can help prevent certain cancers. Talk to your child’s primary care provider (PCP) about the HPV vaccine.

The vaccine can be given to people up to age 26. If you are between 27 and 45, talk with your healthcare provider to see if the vaccine is right for you. If you already have HPV, the vaccine can still protect against other strains of HPV.

Depending upon your age, the vaccine is given in either two or three doses.

Vaccines protect children before they are exposed to a disease. That is why we recommend giving the vaccine between ages 9-13. Also starting early requires only two doses (120 days apart) versus later when three doses may be needed.

The HPV vaccine is covered under the Vaccines for Children program for Medicaid and Child Health Plus members. The vaccine is also covered for members in Fidelis Care’s Essential Plan and Ambetter from Fidelis Care’s Qualified Health Plans.



Sources

www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/human_papillomavirus/

www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/infectious-agents/hpv-vaccine-fact-sheet