HPV is short for human papillomavirus.
HPV is a group of more than 150 related viruses. Each HPV virus in this large group is given a number which is called its HPV type. In some cases, HPV causes warts (papillomas), but some other HPV types can lead to cancer. However, there are vaccines that can prevent infection with the types of HPV that most commonly cause cancer.
Q How do people get HPV?
+HPV is transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact. You can get HPV by having vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone who has the virus. It is most commonly spread during vaginal or anal sex.
Q How common are HPV infections?
+HPV is so common that nearly all people get it at some point in their lives. HPV can be passed even when an infected person has no signs or symptoms. You can develop symptoms years after being infected, making it hard to know when you first became infected.
Q What kinds of problems does HPV infection cause?
+Most people with HPV never develop any symptoms or health problems. Most HPV infections (9 out of 10) go away by themselves within two years. But, sometimes, HPV infections will last longer and cause certain cancers and other diseases. HPV infections can cause:
- Cancers of the cervix, vagina and vulva
- Cancers of the penis
- Cancers of the anus and back of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils (oropharynx)
Q Who should get HPV vaccine?
+All children who are 11 or 12 years old should get the recommended series of HPV vaccine. The vaccination series can be started at age 9 years.
HPV vaccine is recommended for young women through age 26, and young men through age 21. HPV vaccine is also recommended for the following people, if they did not get vaccinated when they were younger:
- Young men who have sex with men, including young men who identify as gay or bisexual or who intend to have sex with men through age 26
- Young adults who are transgender through age 26
- Young adults with certain immunocompromising conditions (including HIV) through age 26
Q What are the possible side effects of HPV vaccination?
+Many people who get HPV vaccine have no side effects but some report having very mild side effects, like a sore arm.
Common side effects of HPV vaccine include:
- Pain, redness or swelling in the arm where the shot was given
- Fever
- Headache or feeling tired
- Nausea
- Muscle or joint pain
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