Talk to your doctor about getting the HPV vaccine.
If you need a doctor, call RWJBarnabas Health’s physician referral service
at 888-724-7123.

HPV Vaccine: Fast Facts

What is HPV?

HPV is short for human papillomavirus. HPVs are a large group of related viruses. Each virus in the group is given a number, which is called an HPV type.

How do people get HPV?

HPV can be passed from one person to another by skin-to-skin contact, such as occurs with sexual activity.

How prevalent is HPV?

Approximately 35,000 men and women in the US get HPV cancers, including cervical, vaginal, vulvar, penile, anal and throat cancers. Eight out of 10 people will get HPV at some point in their lives.

What can I do to prevent HPV?

The HPV vaccine can prevent more than 90% of HPV cancers.

Who can get the HPV vaccine?

The American Cancer Society recommends that boys and girls get the HPV vaccine between ages 9 and 12. The HPV vaccine is given in two doses that are 6 to 12 months apart. Individuals up to age 26 can get the vaccine. Those between the ages of 15 and 26 will need three doses. The vaccine’s ability to prevent cancer decreases as the age of vaccination increases.

Is the HPV vaccine covered by insurance?

Most health insurances cover the cost of the HPV vaccine, but it is also part of the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program which covers the cost of the vaccine.

Is the HPV vaccine safe?

The vaccine is safe and effective with more than 270 million doses given since 2006.

Talk to your doctor about getting the HPV vaccine.
If you need a doctor, call RWJBarnabas Health’s physician referral service
at 888-724-7123.