Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination

Per the Health and Safety Code section 120390.6, students who are 26 years of age or younger are advised to complete Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination prior to first-time enrollment at a CSU, UC, or community college campus.

Vaccination against HPV is recommended by the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Academy of Family Physicians. It’s also recommended by the American Cancer Society and California’s Cancer Prevention Act.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HPV?

HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States. HPV infections can cause certain types of cancers, including:

  • cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers in women
  • penile cancer in men
  • anal cancers in both men and women
  • cancers of tonsils, base of tongue, and back of throat (oropharyngeal cancer) in both men and women

HPV infections can also cause anogenital warts.

How is HPV spread?

HPV is spread through intimate skin-to-skin or sexual contact. HPV infections are so common that nearly all people will get at least one type of HPV at some time in their lives. Most HPV infections go away on their own within 2 years. But sometimes HPV infections will last longer and can cause cancers later in life.

How can I be protected from HPV?

The HPV vaccine offers protection against most HPV related cancers and anogenital warts. 

CDC recommends HPV vaccination for:

  • All preteens (including boys and girls) at age 11 or 12 years (or can start at age 9 years).
  • Everyone through age 26 years, if not vaccinated already.

HPV vaccine may be given to adults 27 through 45 years of age, based on discussions between the patient and health care provider. 

Where can I get vaccinated against HPV?

  • Call the Student Wellness Center at (408) 924-5678 for vaccine availability
  • Your existing healthcare provider
  • Your local county health department

For alternative locations offering the HPV vaccine, please visit the Santa Clara County Public Health Pharmacy Travel and Immunization Clinic.