For individuals 15 years old and older, how many doses of HPV vaccine are recommended?

The recommendation for individuals aged 15 years and older is to receive three doses of the HPV vaccine. This guidance is based on clinical studies indicating that older adolescents and young adults may need a more robust immune response due to their age, which is why a three-dose schedule is advised.

The first dose is given at a scheduled date, the second dose is administered 1 to 2 months after the first dose, and the third dose typically follows 6 months after the first dose. This schedule helps ensure adequate protection against the types of HPV that the vaccine targets, ultimately reducing the risk of developing related cancers and other diseases.

In contrast, for individuals under 15 years old, a two-dose schedule is sufficient, as younger recipients tend to generate a stronger immune response. Therefore, it’s important to adjust the vaccination schedule based on the age of the individual receiving it, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the established guidelines to optimize vaccine efficacy.