Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus that can cause several types of cancer, including cervical cancer. The CDC says HPV causes about 36,000 cancer cases in the United States each year. The CDC also says the HPV vaccine can prevent more than 90% of the cancers that HPV causes.
Who should get the vaccine
- The CDC recommends HPV vaccination at age 11 or 12. Vaccination can start at age 9.
- Children who start the series at age 9 to 14 need two doses, 6 to 12 months apart.
- People who start at age 15 to 26, and people age 9 to 26 with a weakened immune system, need three doses.
Vaccination rates in West Virginia
CDC National Immunization Survey-Teen data for 2024, as reported by KFF, showed that 56% of West Virginia teens age 13 to 17 were up to date on HPV vaccination. America’s Health Rankings put the same 2024 rate at 55.6%, 43rd among the states. KFF reported a rate of 63% for girls and 49% for boys, so most teen boys in the state were not up to date.
The health department clinic offered HPV vaccine with its other childhood and adult vaccines. See Immunizations and vaccine information for the public.
This information is a record of past data and guidance and is not current advice. Check current HPV vaccine guidance from the CDC or your child’s doctor.