WHAT IS HPV?

HPV (short for human papillomavirus) is a virus that can cause certain cancers and diseases in both males and females.

HPV often has no signs or symptoms. In fact, many people who have the human papillomavirus don't even know it.

How common is HPV?

Every year in the United States, there are ~14 million new HPV infections.

About 50% of them are in 15- to 24-year-olds.

That’s about 19,000 teens and young adults each day.

For most people, HPV clears on its own. But, for others who don't clear the virus, it could cause certain cancers and other diseases.

Help Protect Your Child  

To learn how you can help protect your child from certain HPV-related cancers and diseases, talk to your child's doctor or health care professional today.

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This little virus can have serious consequences.

There are about 100 types of human papillomavirus (HPV). At least 40 of them can infect the genital area, and certain types cause the majority of HPV-related cancers and diseases.

How do you get HPV?

HPV (human papillomavirus) is spread through genital contact with someone who is infected.

Although sexual intercourse is the most common way people get HPV, adolescent experimentation with someone who is infected also puts your child at risk.

Does HPV typically have signs and symptoms?

Because HPV often has no signs or symptoms, it can be difficult to tell who has or doesn’t have the virus.

Many people who have HPV don't even know it.