Here’s something you might not know: Starting at age 9, your child can get the HPV vaccine for proven protection that lasts a lifetime. The vaccine provides protection against 90 percent of cancers caused by HPV. Though HPV infections may go unnoticed, their impact is significant, since some infections can lead to cancer. Protect your kids now — and protect them for life — with the HPV vaccine.

Recommendations

HPV vaccination is routinely given at age 11 or 12 but can start at age 9. Catch-up HPV vaccination is recommended for people up to age 45 who have not been adequately vaccinated. All kids should be vaccinated for HPV. The HPV vaccine is administered in two or three doses, depending on how old you are when you start the series.

For people who get the first dose before their 15th birthday:

  • Two doses, six months apart.

For people who start HPV vaccination at age 15 or older, or for people with weakened immune systems between the ages of 9 and 26:

  • Three doses over six months.

Where to Find Vaccines

If your child is insured:

If your child has health insurance, the best way to get them vaccinated is to make an appointment with their doctor. However, pharmacists can also administer some vaccines to children. Call ahead to make sure your child can be vaccinated at the pharmacy. Ensure that the pharmacy has the vaccine you need and that it’s covered by your insurance.

Looking for a doctor for your child?

  • Call the number on the back of your child’s insurance card or visit the company’s website>
  • Reach out to a City health center. Call ahead to make an appointment or learn about available walk-in hours.

If your child is uninsured:

If your child doesn’t have health insurance, you can get them vaccinated at a City health center. Call ahead to make an appointment or learn about available walk-in hours. The health center will let you know if you need to provide identification or proof of residency to get your child vaccinated. These sites can also help you apply for affordable health insurance for your child.

Questions?

Contact the Philadelphia Immunization Program at vaccines@phila.gov.

Find out more about vaccinations for children.