HPV Information & Vaccine
(human papillomavirus)
What is HPV?
HPV (human papillomavirus) is a common virus that can lead to certain cancers in both males and females. It often has no signs or symptoms. For most people, HPV clears on its own. But for those who don’t clear the virus, it could cause certain cancers later in life. The CDC recommends routine HPV vaccination at ages 11-12, but vaccination can be initiated as early as age 9.
Symptoms
HPV often has no signs or symptoms. As a parent, you may be surprised to learn that your son or daughter can be exposed to HPV through adolescent sexual experimentation with someone who has HPV. Anyone who has the virus can pass it on without even knowing it.
TENS OF THOUSANDS of people in the United States are diagnosed with certain HPV-related cancers each year.
Talk to Your Child's Doctor About HPV Vaccination
HPV vaccination is a type of cancer prevention against certain HPV-related cancers. The CDC notes that HPV vaccination may begin at age nine and recommends routine HPV vaccination at ages 11-12. Talk to your child’s doctor about the appropriate time for your child to get vaccinated.
While your child may not be at risk now, it’s important to help protect your child from certain HPV-related cancers that may develop later in life.
Videos
Does the HPV Vaccine Prevent Cancer?
Video by CDC (46 sec)
What Diseases Are Caused by HPV?
Video by CDC (53 sec)
Free Downloads
HPV and Men
(CDC Fact Sheet)
Nearly all sexually active people who do not get the HPV vaccine get infected with HPV at some point in their lives. This sheet provides information of what HPV is, complications it can cause, and best steps for prevention.
HPV Vaccination Prevents Cancer
(Saint Jude Children's Hospital)
Brochure by Saint Jude Children's Hospital about HPV vaccination and prevention. HPV Vaccination Prevents Cancer HPV, or human papillomavirus, is a common virus linked to six types of cancer.
HPV Prevention; Arkansas State Profile (St. Jude Children's Hosp)
Arkansas has increased HPV vaccination coverage of ≥1 dose by 17% and up-to-date (UTD) by 15% since 2016. However, coverage remains lower than the U.S. average and below the Healthy People 2030 goal of 80% UTD.
HPV Vaccine - A Guide for Young Adults (U.S. IAC)
Fact sheet regarding HPV vaccine for young adults - frequently asked questions. For more information on vaccines for teens and young adults, visit www.vaccineinformation.org/teens or www.vaccineinformation.org/adults
A Parents Guide to Preteen & Teen HPV Vaccination (U.S. IAC)
Fact sheet by the Immunization Action Coalition that answers questions like What Is HPV? How common is HPV? How Serious is HPV? How is HPV spread? and more.
Where to Get HPV Vaccine in AR and How to Pay for It
Guidelines on where to get HPV vaccine in Arkansas, and how to pay for it. Includes guidelines ages 9-26 years who are uninsured, on Medicaid, or who are insured by health insurance.
6 Reasons to Get HPV Vaccine for Your Child (Infographic)
An educational infographic handout by the Arkansas Immunization Action Coalition on the six reasons parents should get HPV vaccine for their child.
HPV Vaccination Rates
Aged 11 - 14 with 1 or more HPV Vaccine
HPV Vaccination Rates
Aged 11 - 14 with 2 or more HPV Vaccine
HPV Vaccination Rates
Aged 13-17 with 1 or more HPV Vaccine