CDC Recommends HPV Catch-Up Vaccine in Those 26 and Younger

By Kelly Young

Edited by André Sofair, MD, MPH, and William E. Chavey, MD, MS

The CDC now recommends catch-up vaccination for human papillomavirus (HPV) for both males and females age 26 and under who are not adequately vaccinated. This formalizes the June recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.

Adequate vaccination generally means two doses of the vaccine if started before the 15th birthday and three doses if started on or after.

For those age 27 through 45, catch-up vaccination is not routinely recommended since the "public health benefit of HPV vaccination in this age range is minimal." The CDC recommends shared decision-making in this group. Clinicians may consider discussing vaccination with patients most likely to benefit, such as those with a new sex partner. The vaccine may not be highly effective in patients with HPV risk factors like multiple lifetime sex partners and previous infection with an HPV type covered by the vaccine.