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Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine

Gardasil® was the first vaccine approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) developed to protect against cervical cancer. As of 2017, Gardasil-9 has been the only HPV vaccine available in the United States and provides the most comprehensive protection. It protects against:

  • HPV-16 & HPV-18. These are the two most common high-risk strains of HPV, causing 70% of cervical cancers, 90% of anal cancers, and many cancers that affect the throat and genitals.
  • HPV-31, 33, 34, 45, 52 & 58. Combined, these strains cause an additional 20% of cervical cancers.
  • HPV-6 & HPV-11. These strains cause 90% of genital warts and are considered low risk because they don’t cause cancer. However, genital warts are contagious and being vaccinated can prevent infection or exposing sexual partners.

The age recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) include:

  • Children aged 11-12 – Given as part of the vaccination schedule for children; can be given to children as young as 9 years old; goal is to vaccinate children before they become sexually active and risk exposure.
  • Adults up to and including age 26 – Includes adults who previously started but did not complete the series.
  • Some adults up to and including age 45 – In 2018, the FDA expanded the recommendation to include adults; although the vaccine will not protect adults already exposed to HPV strains.

It is not recommended to receive the vaccine during pregnancy, if an adverse reaction occurred after a previous dose of HPV vaccine, or during an acute illness.

The HPV vaccine is given as a series of 2- or 3-doses based on the age at first dose. From age 9-15, it’s given as a 2-dose series given 6-12 months apart. From age 15 and up, it’s given as a 3-dose series with the second dose given 1-2 months after the initial dose, and the third dose given 6 months after the initial dose.

An appointment is needed. Please schedule by going to MyStudentChart > Menu > Visits > Schedule an Appointment > Nursing Immunization Visit, or call Student Health Services at (858) 534-3300.

UC SHIP covers the cost of the HPV vaccine when administered at SHS for all students who started the HPV series prior to turning age 27. See the Cost of Services page for pricing.

Resources

If you are currently sick or injured and need medical advice, call (858) 534-3300 to speak with a registered nurse who can provide guidance. This service is available 24/7 to all students at no cost. You may also message the nursing team during regular hours via MyStudentChart: Menu > Student Health Ask-a-Nurse.