28 Jan 2025 It’s Cervical Cancer Prevention Week!
Recommend HPV Vaccine Using the Guidance Below
The HPV vaccine is approved for ages 9 years through 45 years for all genders. The American Cancer Society and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend vaccination starting at age 9.
Early vaccination at ages 9-10 has several benefits, including more robust immune response and increased likelihood of completing the series.
Steps to Recommend HPV Vaccine to Hesitant Caregivers
Use a Presumptive Announcement Approach:
- Your child is __ years old.
- Today, they are due to receive the HPV vaccine (or Tdap, HPV, and MCV vaccines if they are 11-12 years old).
- We will make sure they get all these shots to keep them safe and healthy
If caregiver hesitates:
Connect and Counsel:
- What’s your main concern?
- Counsel using a research-tested method (ex.”Over 30,000 Americans get cancer from HPV every year. Most could be prevented with the HPV vaccine.”)
If caregiver declines:
Try Again:
- Answer caregiver’s questions and emphasize that the vaccine is safe, effective, and prevents cancer.
- Continue to offer patients the HPV vaccine at every visit
Clinical Guides
Physician assistants & nurse practitioners: Action Guide
Nurses & medical assistants: Action Guide
If you have any questions, reach out to our team at vaccines@phila.gov.