Currently there are six licensed HPV vaccines: three bivalent, two quadrivalent, and one nonavalent vaccine. Those that have been prequalified are being marketed in countries throughout the world. All vaccines are highly efficacious in preventing infection with virus types 16 and 18, which are together responsible for approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases globally. The vaccines are also highly efficacious in preventing precancerous cervical lesions caused by these virus types. The quadrivalent vaccine is also highly efficacious in preventing anogenital warts, a common genital disease which is virtually always caused by infection with HPV types 6 and 11. The nonavalent provides additional protection against HPV types 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58. Data from clinical trials and initial post-marketing surveillance conducted in several continents show HPV vaccines to be safe.

The primary target group in most of the countries recommending HPV vaccination is young adolescent girls, aged 9-14. For all vaccines, the vaccination schedule depends on the age of the vaccine recipient.

As per the December 2022 WHO Position on HPV vaccines, WHO recommends the following schedule:

• A one or two-dose schedule for girls aged 9-14
• A one or two-dose schedule for girls and women aged 15-20
• Two doses with a 6-month interval for women older than 21

A minimum of 2 doses and when feasible 3-doses remain necessary for those known to be immunocompromised and/or HIV-infected.