top of page

HPV Information & Vaccine
(human papillomavirus)

What is HPV? 

 

HPV (human papillomavirus) is a common virus that can lead to certain types of cancer 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. Routine HPV vaccination is recommended for individuals aged 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 adolescents can be exposed to the virus, and anyone carrying HPV can pass it on without 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. HPV vaccination may begin at age 9, and routine HPV vaccination is recommended 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 essential 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_HPV-and-Men-CDC-Fact-Sheet.jpg
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_parent-information-from-St-Jude.jpg
HPV Vaccination Prevents Cancer
(St. Jude Children's Hospital)

Brochure by St. 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_handout-for-young-adults.jpg
HPV Vaccine - A Guide for Young Adults (Immunize.org)

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

​

2025-arkansas-state-data-profile_Page_1.jpg
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_Parents-guide-to-HPV.jpg
A Parents Guide to Preteen & Teen HPV Vaccination (Immunize.org)

Fact sheet by Immunize.org that answers questions like What Is HPV? How common is HPV? How Serious is HPV? How is HPV spread? and more.

HPV_Where-to-get-HPV-Vacc-in-AR_2017.jpg
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.

HPV_vacc-six-reasons-to-get-it_infographic.jpg
6 Reasons to Get HPV Vaccine for Your Child (Infographic)

An educational infographic handout by the CDC on the six reasons parents should get the HPV vaccine for their child.

HPV 1 or more_ map 11_14 years- 4_2026.jpg
HPV Vaccination Rates

Aged 11 - 14 with 1 or more HPV Vaccine

HPV 2 or more_ map 11_14 years- 4_2026.jpg
HPV Vaccination Rates

Aged 11 - 14 with 2 or more HPV Vaccine

HPV 1 or more_ map 13_17 years- 4_2026.jpg
HPV Vaccination Rates

Aged 13-17 with 1 or more HPV Vaccine

Resources & Links

Schedule Your Vaccination at the Arkansas Dept of Health
CALL

Call 1-800-985-6030

Immunization Action Coalition Information about HPV
GO

https://www.immunize.org/hpv/

bottom of page