Health311Search all NYC.gov websites
Print icon Print

Protect Their Futures: New NYC Health Department HPV Vaccine Campaign Targets New York City Families

The new multi-media campaign underscores that the HPV vaccine is cancer prevention for all.

The vaccine prevents 90% of HPV- cancers, including cervical, penile, and throat cancers.

June 10, 2025 — The New York City Health Department (NYC Health Department) released a new campaign to encourage New Yorkers to ensure their children are vaccinated for the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can lead to cancer. The vaccine prevents up to 90% of HPV-related cancers and has proven to be safe and effective for the last 20 years. The month-long campaign reflects everyday New York City families and is running on television, online, and radio advertisements and on signs in outdoor public settings.

Father and son
Mother and two kids

“The HPV vaccine saves lives by preventing 90 percent of HPV-related cancers, including cervical, throat, and penile cancer,” said Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse. “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.”

Over 40 million people in the United States have an HPV infection and nearly half of infections occur in teens and young adults ages 15 to 24. Some HPV infections eventually lead to cancer. HPV-related cancers include:

  • Oropharyngeal (back of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils)
  • Cervical
  • Penile
  • Vaginal
  • Anal
  • Vulvar

Starting At Age 9

The vaccine works best for people who have not been exposed to HPV and protects against nine types of HPV infections. Most HPV infections are acquired in adolescence and young adulthood, which is why the vaccine is recommended at age 9—long before exposure to the virus.

The HPV vaccine is strongly recommended for all children ages 9 through 12. However, by age 13, about 30% of adolescents in New York City have not started their HPV vaccine series and less than half have completed the series. Teens and young adults through age 26 who did not start or finish the HPV vaccine series should still get vaccinated. Two doses of the vaccine are needed if the series is started before their 15th birthday. Anyone who starts the series at age 15 or older needs three shots given over six months. The NYC Health Department urges families and pediatricians to discuss the benefits of vaccination starting at age 9.

For more information, please visit: nyc.gov/hpv

###

#024-25

MEDIA CONTACT: PressOffice@health.nyc.gov