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 the HPV vaccine series at age 9. This recommendation follows guidance from national organizations and aims to maximize cancer prevention.
According to both departments, the NYS Immunization Information System (NYSIIS) and the NYC Citywide Immunization Registry (CIR) have updated their forecast schedules to reflect this change. These systems help track vaccination progress and remind providers about the new recommendation.
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, has shown that HPV vaccines are safe for children aged 9 years and older. Administering the first dose during a routine 9-year-old visit can make it easier for children to complete 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.”
National organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Family Practice, American Cancer Society, as well as several state groups, recommend starting HPV vaccination at age 9. The vaccine is given in either two or three shots depending on when it is started: those beginning between ages 9 and 14 need two shots at least six months apart; those starting later—between ages 15 and 26—or anyone with a weakened immune system (age 9 through 26), require three doses for full protection.
Adults up to age 45 who have not been vaccinated may also consider getting vaccinated after consulting with their doctor about potential benefits and risks.
The departments note that despite its effectiveness in preventing cancer, more than one-third of adolescents in New York State aged 13-15 have not received all recommended doses of the HPV vaccine.
In New York State, nearly 2,900 people are diagnosed each year with an HPV-related cancer. Of these cases, approximately 58% occur in females while males account for about 42%. Cancers linked to HPV include cervical, oropharyngeal (throat), vaginal, vulvar, penile, and anal cancers. Cervical cancer remains most common among females; oropharyngeal cancer is most common among males. Non-Hispanic White males have higher rates of oropharyngeal cancer compared with other male groups.
From 2007 through 2021, incidence rates for all HPV-related cancers combined increased significantly among non-Hispanic White females (by about 0.7% per year) and males (by about 1.5% per year). In contrast, rates decreased among non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic populations during this period. However, Black non-Hispanic females continue to experience higher overall rates of these cancers—primarily due to cervical cancer—which public health officials attribute largely to systemic racism affecting healthcare access and socioeconomic conditions.
Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse stated: “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.”
To improve vaccination rates statewide—and reduce related disease—the department collaborates with local agencies such as the NYS Cancer Consortium’s HPV Coalition.
Vaccination is available free-of-charge through participating local health departments or federally designated facilities for uninsured or underinsured adults over age eighteen via the NYSDOH Vaccines for Adults Program.
Since changes enacted in 2021 allow pharmacists across New York State to administer HPV vaccines to individuals aged eighteen years or older.
For more information on vaccine safety from New York State Department of Health visit: https://www.health.ny.gov/prevention/immunization/vaccine_safety.htm
