The New York State Department of Health and the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene are urging parents and health providers to begin administering the HPV vaccine series at age 9. This recommendation aligns with guidance from national organizations and is intended to improve cancer prevention efforts. Updated schedules in the NYS Immunization Information System (NYSIIS) and the NYC Citywide Immunization Registry (CIR) are now available to help track vaccination progress.
Research indicates that two doses of the HPV vaccine, given six months apart to children ages 9 to 14, produce an immune response equal to or better than three doses administered to older adolescents and young adults. More than a decade of monitoring in the United States and other countries, along with multiple clinical trials, have found that HPV vaccines are safe for children starting at age 9. Beginning vaccination during routine visits at this age can help ensure completion of the two-dose series by age 13.
“Getting the HPV vaccine series is the best protection against preventable cancers caused by HPV infection,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald. “As a pediatrician for more than three decades, I encourage parents and guardians to talk with their child’s provider about the long-lasting protection the vaccine provides and enjoy the peace of mind this protection affords.”
Major medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Family Practice, and American Cancer Society, recommend starting HPV vaccination at age 9. The vaccine is administered as a series: those who start between ages 9 and 14 need two shots at least six months apart; those beginning later or with weakened immune systems require three doses for full protection.
Adults up to age 45 who have not been vaccinated may consider receiving the HPV vaccine after consulting with a healthcare provider about its benefits and risks.
The HPV vaccine can be given alongside other recommended vaccines. Despite its ability to prevent many cancers, over 38 percent of New York adolescents aged 13-15 have not received it as recommended.
Each year in New York State, nearly 2,900 people are diagnosed with an HPV-related cancer. Of these cases, approximately 58% occur in females and 42% in males. Cancers linked to HPV include those affecting the cervix, oropharynx, vagina, vulva, penis, and anus. Cervical cancer is most common among females; oropharyngeal cancer is most frequent among males. Non-Hispanic White males experience higher rates of oropharyngeal cancer compared to other groups.
From 2007 through 2021, incidence rates for all HPV-related cancers combined increased among non-Hispanic White females and males by an average annual rate of 0.7% and 1.5%, respectively; meanwhile rates decreased significantly among non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic populations. However, Black non-Hispanic females continue to have the highest overall rate of these cancers in New York State due mainly to higher cervical cancer rates. These disparities are attributed in part to systemic racism and structural inequities such as healthcare access and socioeconomic status.
“Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse said,” The HPV vaccine saves lives by preventing 90 percent of HPV-related cancers, including cervical, throat, and penile cancer. The NYC Health Department encourages parents and caregivers to speak with their children’s health care provider about the benefits of the HPV vaccine and to start the series beginning at age 9.””
The state health department collaborates with partners such as the NYS Cancer Consortium’s HPV Coalition as well as local health departments on initiatives aimed at increasing vaccination rates across communities.
Uninsured or underinsured adults over age 18 may receive free vaccinations through local health departments or federally designated facilities participating in the NYSDOH Vaccines for Adults Program.
Since 2021 pharmacists in New York State have also been permitted to administer HPV vaccines for individuals aged 18 years or older.
For more information on vaccine safety from state health authorities visit: https://www.health.ny.gov/prevention/immunization/vaccine_safety.htm
