Parents Receptive to Children Receiving HPV Vaccine at Ages 9-10: Study

Clinicians in two states found that parents were receptive to their children receiving a vaccine for the human papillomavirus (HPV) at ages 9 or 10 rather than 11 – the age at which it is usually administered, according to a study published in the July 2025 Pediatrics. The study, “Feasibility and Acceptability of Recommending HPV Vaccine at Ages 9-10 Years,” (published online June 2), surveyed and interviewed clinicians from 17 practices in Colorado and 16 practices in California. Clinicians and staff perceived that discussions with parents about the HPV vaccine were easier and shorter when the child was 9 or 10. Many parents preferred the option to space out vaccines by administering a single vaccine at age 9 and fewer at age 11. HPV is the most prevalent sexually transmitted infection in the United States. Despite the availability of an effective vaccine, only 57.3% percent of adolescents ages 13-15 received recommended doses of the HPV vaccine by 2023, according to one study. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends routine HPV vaccination at age 11 or 12 but states that vaccination can start at age 9. Prior research has demonstrated excellent immunogenicity, safety, and duration of protection. The authors suggest that recommendation at ages 9-10 may allow for more opportunities to vaccinate before sexual activity begins to increase and preventive care visits decrease.

##

The American Academy of Pediatrics is an organization of 67,000 primary care pediatricians, pediatric medical subspecialists and pediatric surgical specialists dedicated to the health, safety and well-being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults.