Gardasil 4/ HPV Vaccine

Who Should Get It:

Gardasil 4 protects against 4 types of HPV (6, 11, 16, and 18) linked to cervical cancer, genital warts, and other cancers. It’s recommended for:

• Girls and boys ages 9–14 (best given before becoming sexually active)

• Teens and young adults up to age 26 if not previously vaccinated

• Some adults 27–45 years old based on individual risk and doctor’s advice

Before the Injection:

• Let your provider know if you're pregnant, sick, or have had allergic reactions to previous HPV shots.

• No special prep is needed, but wear a short-sleeved shirt for easier access to the arm.

After the Injection:

Mild side effects may include:

• Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site

• Headache or dizziness

• Fever or fatigue

These are temporary and usually go away within a day or two.
Severe reactions are very rare.

Protection Timeline:

The full vaccine series is usually 2 to 3 doses over 6 months, depending on age.
Maximum protection develops after completing all doses and lasts many years, possibly lifelong.