What is the recommendation for the administration of the HPV vaccine (Gardasil)?

The recommendation for the administration of the HPV vaccine (Gardasil) is that all boys and girls are ideally vaccinated at ages 11 to 12. This age range is recommended because it is generally prior to the onset of sexual activity, maximizing the vaccine's effectiveness in preventing HPV-related cancers and diseases. Vaccinating preteens also ensures that they are protected before they are exposed to the virus, which is primarily transmitted through sexual contact.

Additionally, the vaccine can be administered starting as early as age 9 and is recommended up to age 26 for those not previously vaccinated. This broad inclusivity helps create a better public health outcome by aiming to significantly reduce HPV transmission and associated health complications in the population. The recommendation focuses on both genders to address the risk of HPV-related cancers, including cervical cancer in females and oropharyngeal cancer and anal cancer in males and females alike.