I got the HPV4 vaccine. Can I get the HPV9 vaccine? I hear it covers more strains.

You’re right - the HPV9 vaccine covers 5 more strains than the HPV4 vaccine covered. Both the HPV4 and HPV9 vaccines protect against the 2 strains of HPV (16 & 18) that cause about 70% of cervical cancers and 80% of cases of anal cancer. Both vaccines also protect against the 2 strains that cause about 90% of genital warts (6 & 11). The HPV9 vaccine protects against 5 additional strains (31, 33, 45, 52 & 58) that cause 15% to 20% of cervical cancers and 11% of anal cancers in females and 4% in males. 

 

If you’ve had the HPV4 vaccine, you can get the HPV9 vaccine to be protected against these additional strains. Most people who have had an HPV4 series will have to purchase the HPV9 vaccine. The vaccine can be purchased at most pharmacies or travel clinics. Some health plans cover the cost of the vaccine; check with your provider. A complete HPV9 vaccine series (3 doses for those 15 and older) is recommended to ensure protection against the 5 additional types. You should wait at least 6 months after completing the HPV4 series to get the HPV9 vaccine.