HPV immunization

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs).  It can be spread through sex or skin-to-skin genital contact with someone who has the virus.

Protect yourself with the HPV vaccine

There is no known cure for HPV, but if you’re between 9 and 26, you can get the HPV vaccine to protect you.  The vaccine does not protect you against other STIs.

• The vaccine works best when you get it before you’re sexually active
• The vaccine may not help if you’ve had more than 4 sex partners
• The vaccine is given in 3 doses
• Men and boys can have the vaccine too

Kaiser Permanente strongly recommends the vaccine for all girls from 11 to 18 and young women up to 26 years old.