Why start at age 9?

HPV Vaccine is Most Effective When Given Between

The Ages of 9 and 12 Years

✓  Prevents multiple cancers later in life

The HPV vaccine helps prevent six types of cancer; oropharyngeal, cervical, vaginal, vulvar, anal, and penile — keeping your child protected years down the line. It also protects against genital warts in both females and males.

✓ Strongest immune response

At this age, the body produces the highest level of infection-fighting cells (antibodies), ensuring long-lasting protection.

✓ Protection before exposure

Vaccinating early enables the body to build up immunity to HPV long before exposure to the virus.

✓ Starting at age 9 means better completion rates

Children who get the first dose of the vaccine at 9 are more likely to complete the series before they turn 13.

✓ Starting early means fewer shots

9-14 year olds only need 2 doses of the vaccine; 15 year olds and older need 3 doses.

Recommended Vaccine Schedule

We get it…life is busy!

Don’t miss your next vaccine! Download and print our vaccination reminder card to keep track of your child’s HPV vaccine schedule. Post it on your fridge, tuck it in your wallet, or keep it with important documents—it’s a simple way to stay on track for protection.

Appointment Card

Research Reinforces the Recommendation to Start Offering HPV Vaccines at Age Nine

9 & On Time Campaign

Nine and On-Time is our own VAX 2 STOP CANCER initiative, created to raise awareness about the benefits of starting the HPV vaccination series at age 9. Starting earlier offers stronger protection before potential exposure, makes it easier to complete the series on time, and only requires two doses instead of three. We launched this campaign to address low HPV vaccination rates in Alabama and to empower families with the knowledge to protect their children from six types of cancer. Here are some examples of the materials we’ve created to spread the word and inspire action.