Tag: hpv

BRHD to Host Back-to-School Vaccine Clinic on April 25

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
BRHD to Host Back-to-School Vaccine Clinic on April 25
Charlottesville, VA — The Virginia Department of Health’s Blue Ridge Health District (BRHD) will host a back-to-school vaccine clinic on Saturday, April 25, from 8–11 a.m. at the Charlottesville/Albemarle Health Department, located at 1138 Rose Hill Drive (Door #1).
The clinic will offer Tdap, Meningococcal (MCV), and HPV vaccines for rising 6th through 12th grade students. These vaccines help protect adolescents against serious illnesses and are required for school attendance in Virginia.
Appointments are encouraged and can be made by calling 434-972-6269. Walk-ins are also welcome. Parents and guardians are asked to bring their child’s insurance or Medicaid card if available; however, uninsured children are welcome and will be served. All minors must be accompanied by an adult age 18 or older.
For more information on vaccines and school health requirements, please visit the Virginia Department of Health website.

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Stress Importance of Oral Health

April 21, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, Daniel.hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Stress Importance of Oral Health
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

WISE, Va. – This month, the Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts want to remind every adult to get screened for oral cancer. Like other cancer screenings, oral cancer screenings are an effective means of finding cancer at its early, highly curable stages. Early detection is the first step toward a successful treatment.

“Oral health is a vital part of overall health and well-being; and oral cancer screenings are a simple but powerful tool to catch problems early when they are most treatable,” said Reisa Sloce, district director Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts. “When we make time for prevention and screening, we’re not just protecting ourselves—we’re strengthening the health of our families and our entire community.”

The use of tobacco and alcohol is a leading cause of oral cancer because it leads to damage of the DNA of cells inside your mouth and throat. Another cause is through exposure to human papillomavirus virus (HPV). The quickest growing segment of the oral cancer population is young, healthy, non-smokers due to the connection to this HPV.

Self-examinations can also help detect oral cancer. Consult a healthcare provider if you find any of the following conditions:

  • A sore on your lip or in your mouth that doesn’t heal.
  • Unusual bleeding, pain or numbness in your mouth.
  • Difficulty or pain when chewing or swallowing.

To help prevent oral cancer, your local health department suggests these steps:

  • Limit Alcohol Use: Limiting your intake to no more than two drinks a day for men and one drink a day for women can lower your risk.
  • Avoid Tobacco: Never using or quitting tobacco, to include cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, cigars, and/or pipes, reduces your risk.
  • Avoid HPV Infection: Talk to your healthcare provider about the HPV vaccination. The vaccine can prevent new infections of certain types of HPV associated with oral cancer.
  • Eat Healthy: Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables in your diet. These foods contain essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.
  • Get Regular Checkups: Visit your healthcare provider and dentist regularly. The earlier oral cancer is found, the greater your chances of beating it.

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) Dental Health Program is designed to improve equitable access to dental care and public health interventions through community-based prevention programs.

To learn more about the Dental Health Program at VDH, contact the Cumberland Plateau Health District at 276-889-7621 or the LENOWISCO Health District at 276-328-8000.

April 20, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, Daniel.Hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Urge Community Action During Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month

WISE, Va. – April is Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month and the Virginia Department of Health’s Cumberland Plateau and LENOWICO Health Districts want you to know the critical importance of healthy lifestyles, immunizations, regular screenings, and early detection in reducing cancer risk and improving outcomes for Virginians.

“In communities across Virginia, especially in our rural areas, we know that the strongest defense against cancer starts with everyday choices and access to preventive care,” said Reisa Sloce, director, Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts.  “Healthy lifestyles, staying up to date on immunizations, and getting regular screenings are critically important tools that can reduce risk and catch cancers early—when it they are most treatable. By prioritizing prevention and early detection, we can improve outcomes, save lives, and build healthier futures for all Virginians.”

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in Virginia. Locally, Cumberland Plateau experiences 324.5 cancer cases and 190.3 cancer deaths per 100,000.  The LENOWISCO Health District experiences 317 cancer cases and 207.6 cancer deaths per 100,000.  The most common cancers in Virginia include breast, lung, colorectal, and prostate cancer.

Early detection through screening improves survival rates. Yet disparities persist in screening rates and outcomes among different communities.

The Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts offer the following programs to help our community prevent cancer or lead to early diagnosis

Additionally, Cumberland Plateau and LENOWICO Health Department offers these prevention and early detection tips:

  • Get regular screenings for breast, cervical, colorectal, and lung cancer as recommended by your healthcare provider.
  • Get vaccinated with the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. HPV vaccination prevents six different types of cancers from ever developing.
  • Eat a healthy diet, maintain a healthy weight, and stay physically active.
  • Avoid tobacco use and limit alcohol consumption.
  • Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure.

To learn more about VDH cancer prevention programs, eligibility for free screenings, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/cancer/resources/ or call 1-800-CDC-INFO. For more information contact the Cumberland Plateau Health District at 276-889-7621 or the LENOWISCO Health District at 276-328-8000.

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Stresses Importance of Oral Health

April 7, 2026
Media Contact: Dr. Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov.

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Stresses Importance of Oral Health
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

WARRENTON, Va. – This April, the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District reminds every adult to get screened for oral cancer. Like other cancer screenings, oral cancer screenings are an effective means of finding cancer at its early, highly curable stages. Early detection is the first step toward a successful treatment.

“Oral health is a vital part of overall health and well-being,” said Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Director J. Carr, M.D. “During Oral Cancer Awareness Month, we encourage our community to prioritize regular screenings, early detection, and preventive care. Together, we can reduce the burden of oral disease and improve health outcomes across our district.” 

The use of tobacco and alcohol is a leading cause of oral cancer because it leads to damage of the DNA of cells inside your mouth and throat. Another cause is through exposure to human papillomavirus virus (HPV). The quickest growing segment of the oral cancer population is young, healthy, non-smokers due to the connection to this HPV.

Self-examinations can also help detect oral cancer. Consult a healthcare provider if you find any of the following conditions:

  • A sore on your lip or in your mouth that doesn’t heal.
  • Unusual bleeding, pain or numbness in your mouth.
  • Difficulty or pain when chewing or swallowing.

To help prevent oral cancer, The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District suggests these steps:

  • Limit Alcohol Use: Limiting your intake to no more than two drinks a day for men and one drink a day for women can lower your risk.
  • Avoid Tobacco: Never using or quitting tobacco, to include cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, cigars, and/or pipes, reduces your risk.
  • Avoid HPV Infection: Talk to your healthcare provider about the HPV vaccination. The vaccine can prevent new infections of certain types of HPV associated with oral cancer.
  • Eat Healthy: Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables in your diet. These foods contain essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.
  • Get Regular Checkups: Visit your healthcare provider and dentist regularly. The earlier oral cancer is found, the greater your chances of beating it.

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) Dental Health Program is designed to improve equitable access to dental care and public health interventions through community-based prevention programs.

To learn more about the Dental Health Program at VDH, contact the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District at www.rrhd.org.

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Central Shenandoah Health District Holding Spring In-School Vaccine Clinics for Middle and High School Students

March 31, 2026
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

Central Shenandoah Health District Holding Spring In-School Vaccine Clinics for Middle and High School Students

HARRISONBURG, Va. – The Central Shenandoah Health District will be holding in-school vaccine clinics this spring for rising 7th and 12th graders within Harrisonburg City and Rockingham County Public School Districts. The vaccines available at these clinics are human papillomavirus (HPV), Meningococcal ACWY, and Tdap. These vaccines are available at no cost for those with and without insurance. The Code of Virginia requires children entering daycare, and public or private schools to give proof of vaccination before enrolling in school. The vaccines should be given based on the schedule recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

“We recognize that time is valuable and the closer we get to summer, adults get even busier with vacations and other priorities. We encourage students to get their vaccines sooner rather than later when there can be a rush just before school begins in the fall,” said Xavier Crockett, Health Director of the Central Shenandoah Health District. “To make getting these important vaccines more convenient, CSHD will be hosting in-school vaccination clinics beginning in early April.”

In-school vaccine clinics dates and locations include:

Harrisonburg City Public Schools

  • Harrisonburg High School: April 16
  • Thomas Harrison Middle School: April 22
  • Rocktown High School: April 23
  • Skyline Middle School: April 30

Rockingham County Public Schools

  • Wilbur Pence Middle School: April 8
  • Turner Ashby High School: April 15
  • Broadway High School & J. Frank Middle School: April 20
  • Spotswood High School & Montevideo Middle School: April 24
  • East Rock High School & Elkton Middle School: April 29

Additional schools may be added in the future. Parents are encouraged to visit our website for up-to-date information about the in-school clinic schedule www.vdh.virginia.gov/central-shenandoah/health-services/immunizations/

Only students enrolled in the above listed individual schools and their corresponding clinics may attend these in-school clinics. School required vaccines are also available at your local health department. For more information or to make an appointment, contact your local health department.

Those who qualify for the Vaccine for Children Program will not be billed. If a student has insurance, they must provide their insurance information since insurance will be billed. Parents must complete and submit to the school a signed consent form for their children to receive any vaccines at these clinics. Signed consent forms should be turned in to the children’s school prior to the clinic date. Without a signed consent form, children cannot receive any vaccinations.

To see which vaccines are needed for various age groups, review the AAP Vaccination Schedule.

For more information on vaccines, visit: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/immunization/

 

Crater Health Department Urges Virginians to Get Informed and Vaccinated

March 25, 2026

Media Contact: RaShel Charles, Rashel.Charles@vdh.virginia.gov

Crater Health Department Urges Virginians to Get Informed and Vaccinated
March is National HPV Awareness Month

PETERSBURG, Va — This month, the Crater Health Department (CHD) highlights the importance of preventing Human Papillomavirus (HPV)-related cancers and diseases through screening, vaccination, and education.

HPV is spread through close and intimate skin-to-skin contact.  Roughly 85% of people will get an HPV infection in their lifetime, affecting millions of Americans each year. The HPV virus can cause cervical, throat, anal, and other cancers, but the HPV vaccine is a safe and effective tool to prevent these health issues.

“Human papillomavirus is one of the most common infections, yet it is also one of the most preventable. The HPV vaccination is one of the most powerful tools we have to prevent certain HPV-related cancers,” said Crater District Health Director, Dr. Alton Hart, Jr. “During HPV Awareness Month, we encourage families to talk to their healthcare providers and take action to protect themselves and their children.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends HPV vaccination for boys and girls starting at ages 11 to 12. Vaccination can be administered as early as age nine and through age 26 for those who did not get vaccinated earlier. Some adults age 27 and older may choose to get vaccinated, in consultation with a healthcare provider.

Screening for HPV is another safe and effective tool for preventing HPV-related cancer; however, it is not available for all cancers caused by HPV.

  • Women should start getting screened for cervical cancer at age 21. Screening can include HPV and/or Pap
  • A healthcare provider can help determine which screening test is best and how often a woman should get screened.
  • Eligible women can get free screenings through the Every Woman’s Life Program.

CHD asks all Virginians to:

  • Talk to your healthcare provider about the HPV vaccine for yourself or your children.
  • Schedule an appointment for HPV vaccination if you or your child is eligible and have not yet received it. The HPV vaccine is available for free through the Virginia Vaccines for Children (VVFC) program for eligible children ages nine to 18 years old.
  • Share information about HPV prevention with family, friends, and your community.

Together, we can make HPV-related cancers a thing of the past. Vaccination is a step toward cancer prevention.

For more information about HPV, the vaccine, contact your Crater Health Department at 804-863-1652 or visit Crater Health District.

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The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Health Department Urges Virginians to Get Informed and Vaccinated.

March 9, 2026
Media Contact: Dr Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Health Department Urges Virginians to Get Informed and Vaccinated
March is National HPV Awareness Month.

WARRENTON, Va. — This month, the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Health Department highlights the importance of preventing Human Papillomavirus (HPV)-related cancers and diseases through screening, vaccination, and education.

HPV is spread through close and intimate skin-to-skin contact.  Roughly 85% of people will get an HPV infection in their lifetime, affecting millions of Americans each year. The HPV virus can cause cervical, throat, anal, and other cancers, but the HPV vaccine is a safe and effective tool to prevent these health issues.

“During National HPV Awareness Month, we encourage everyone in our community to get informed about HPV and the cancers it can cause,” said Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Director J. Carr, M.D. “The HPV vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect our children and ourselves. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District urges families to talk with their healthcare provider and stay up to date on recommended vaccinations.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends HPV vaccination for boys and girls starting at ages 11 to 12. Vaccination can be administered as early as age nine and through age 26 for those who did not get vaccinated earlier. Some adults age 27 and older may choose to get vaccinated, in consultation with a healthcare provider.

Screening for HPV is another safe and effective tool for preventing HPV-related cancer; however, it is not available for all cancers caused by HPV.

  • Women should start getting screened for cervical cancer at age 21. Screening can include HPV and/or Pap
  • A healthcare provider can help determine which screening test is best and how often a woman should get screened.
  • Eligible women can get free screenings through the Every Woman’s Life Program.

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Health Department asks all Virginians to:

  • Talk to your healthcare provider about the HPV vaccine for yourself or your children.
  • Schedule an appointment for HPV vaccination if you or your child is eligible and have not yet received it. The HPV vaccine is available for free through the Virginia Vaccines for Children (VVFC) program for eligible children ages nine to 18 years old.
  • Share information about HPV prevention with family, friends, and your community.

Together, we can make HPV-related cancers a thing of the past. Vaccination is a step toward cancer prevention.

For more information about HPV, the vaccine, contact the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Health Department at www.rrhd.org.

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The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Offers Tips to Help Reduce Cancer Risks

February 12, 2026
Media Contact: Dr. Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov.

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Offers Tips to Help Reduce Cancer Risks
February is National Cancer Prevention Month

WARRENTON, Va. – The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District is dedicated to protecting the health of its residents by promoting healthy lifestyle choices that serve to combat chronic diseases like cancer. Three of the top four cancers diagnosed in Virginia (breast, lung, and colorectal) are linked to habits that could be modified or steps that could be taken to help prevent the disease.

In honor of National Cancer Prevention Awareness Month, the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District wants to remind you of the importance of regular screenings to recognize early warning signs of cancer and understanding lifestyle-related risk factors.

“Cancer prevention starts with everyday choices that support healthy living,” said Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Director J. Carr, M.D. “During National Cancer Prevention Month, we encourage our community to reduce risk by staying active, eating well, avoiding tobacco, and staying up to date on recommended screenings, because prevention is the best protection.”

Cancer affects one in three people in the United States. While cancer is not entirely preventable, you can reduce your risk by making healthy choices. Practice these common behaviors to help prevent cancer:

  • Avoid Tobacco: For the first step in living tobacco free, visit Quit Now Virginia.
  • Eat Healthy Foods: Healthy eating emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy, and protein.
  • Get Active: Physical activity is one of the best things Virginians can do for their health and well-being.
  • Be Safe in the Sun: Take precautions to protect your skin from the sun.
  • Protect against HPV: The best way to prevent the human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is to be vaccinated with the HPV vaccine.
  • Know Your Cancer Risk: Talk with your healthcare provider to determine your cancer risks and make sure you get regular cancer screenings. Breast cancer screening (mammograms), colorectal or prostate cancer screening (e.g., colonoscopies or PSA tests) are provided at the UVA hospital: the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District offers Cervical cancer screening (Pap/HPV tests).

The Virginia Department of Health’s Cancer Prevention and Control Program (VACCP) focuses on reducing the incidence, morbidity and mortality of all cancers through prevention, early detection, treatment, and rehabilitation.

To learn more about available cancer prevention programs and resources, contact the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District at www.rrhd.org.

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Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Encourage Vaccination and Screening to Protect Against Cervical Cancer

January 20, 2026 Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Encourage Vaccination and Screening to Protect Against Cervical Cancer

January is Cervical Health Awareness Month

RICHMOND, Va. – In honor of Cervical Health Awareness Month, Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) encourage community members to take action against cervical cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), human papilloma virus (HPV) causes more than nine out of every 10 cases of cervical cancer. Almost all cervical cancer can be prevented by HPV vaccination.

  • Parents and guardians should make sure their children have their school-required HPV vaccination prior to starting 7th grade.
    • Parents and guardians can make appointments for school-required immunizations with their primary care provider, a local pharmacy, or at an in-school clinic.
  • Women ages 21 and older should talk to their doctor about cervical cancer screening.
    • The United States Department of Health and Human Services recently approved a self-administered test for cervical cancer for women aged 30-65 years at average risk. This test can be completed at home or at a doctor’s office. Insurance plans will be required to cover the full cost of self-collected HPV screenings by Jan. 1, 2027, with no cost to consumers.

“Making sure children get the HPV vaccine can help reduce their risk of developing cervical and other cancers,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Director Elaine Perry, M.D. “We encourage our community to protect their health and the health of their children through vaccination and regular screenings for cervical and other cancers.”

HPV Vaccination

According to a recent systematic review published in the Cochrane Library, the HPV vaccination:

  • reduces the incidence of cervical cancer by around 80% in people vaccinated at or before age of 16;
  • reduces the incidence of high‐grade cervical pre‐cancer lesions, as well as anogenital warts;
  • is not associated with an increased risk of long‐term side effects or infertility;
  • is more effective when given at or before the age of 16 years, before onset of sexual activity.

In November 2024, The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) published a research letter stating that studies from 2022 and 2023 indicated a 12 percent per year decline (overall, 65 percent reduction) in cervical cancer incidence from 2012 to 2019 among US women younger than 25 years who likely benefited from HPV vaccination.

A new nationwide cohort study from Sweden suggests that widespread HPV vaccination could substantially reduce the risk of precancerous lesions even among people who never received the vaccine.

HPV vaccination has been recommended for routine use in U.S. women since June 2006.

  • In Virginia, the HPV vaccine is required for all students, regardless of sex, prior to entry into 7th
  • Children who receive both doses of the vaccine before age 13 will receive the most protection.
  • Children who receive their first dose at the age of 15 or older will require three doses to complete the series.
  • The HPV vaccine is also recommended for people 26 years of age who did not start or complete the vaccination at an earlier age.
  • HPV vaccine recommendation for persons 27-45 years of age is based on shared clinical decision making.

According to data from VDH, as of Jan. 13, 2026, 74.1 percent of 13-year-olds in Richmond City and 73.3 percent of 13-year-olds in Henrico County have received at least one dose of the HPV vaccine series. Statewide, 76 percent of 13-year-olds have received least one dose of the HPV vaccine series.

As of Jan. 13, 2026, 47.4 percent of 18-year-olds in Richmond City and 70.4 percent of 18-year-olds in Henrico County have received the complete HPV vaccine series. Statewide, 62.7 percent of 18-year-olds have received the complete HPV vaccine series.

HPV and Cervical Cancer Data

According to data from CDC, HPV causes six different kinds of cancer, including almost all (91 percent) of cervical cancers. HPV also causes 70 percent of head and neck (oropharyngeal) cancers.

According to the National Cancer Institute’s State Cancer Profile, the rate of new cases of cervical cancer in Virginia has been decreasing steadily from 2017 to 2021. The rates of new cases in Richmond and Henrico were somewhat lower than the rate in Virginia during the same time period.

Screening and Care for Cervical Cancer

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) offers Every Woman’s Life (EWL), a public health program that helps uninsured, income-eligible women gain access to free breast and cervical cancer screening services. Screening and early detection reduce death rates, improve treatment options, and greatly increase rates of survival. If a woman enrolled in EWL is diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer she may be eligible for Medicaid to pay for treatment. Community members can use this link to find a EWL provider near them.

To be eligible for EWL, a woman must be a Virginia resident between the ages of 18-64, meet federal income guidelines and be uninsured. Women 18-39 must be symptomatic or be determined to be high risk for breast and/or cervical cancer to be eligible.

Visit rhhd.gov/connect-pc to locate primary care providers in the Richmond and Henrico area. Visit rhhd.gov/childhoodvax for more information on school-required immunizations. For information about RHHD’s clinical health resources and HPV vaccination schedule, call 804-205-3500 or visit rhhd.gov.

Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook.

 

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Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Encourage Vaccination and Screening to Protect Against Cervical Cancer

Posted on by brianlittle

January 20, 2026 Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Encourage Vaccination and Screening to Protect Against Cervical Cancer

January is Cervical Health Awareness Month

RICHMOND, Va. – In honor of Cervical Health Awareness Month, Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) encourage community members to take action against cervical cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), human papilloma virus (HPV) causes more than nine out of every 10 cases of cervical cancer. Almost all cervical cancer can be prevented by HPV vaccination.

  • Parents and guardians should make sure their children have their school-required HPV vaccination prior to starting 7th grade.
    • Parents and guardians can make appointments for school-required immunizations with their primary care provider, a local pharmacy, or at an in-school clinic.
  • Women ages 21 and older should talk to their doctor about cervical cancer screening.
    • The United States Department of Health and Human Services recently approved a self-administered test for cervical cancer for women aged 30-65 years at average risk. This test can be completed at home or at a doctor’s office. Insurance plans will be required to cover the full cost of self-collected HPV screenings by Jan. 1, 2027, with no cost to consumers.

“Making sure children get the HPV vaccine can help reduce their risk of developing cervical and other cancers,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Director Elaine Perry, M.D. “We encourage our community to protect their health and the health of their children through vaccination and regular screenings for cervical and other cancers.”

HPV Vaccination

According to a recent systematic review published in the Cochrane Library, the HPV vaccination:

  • reduces the incidence of cervical cancer by around 80% in people vaccinated at or before age of 16;
  • reduces the incidence of high‐grade cervical pre‐cancer lesions, as well as anogenital warts;
  • is not associated with an increased risk of long‐term side effects or infertility;
  • is more effective when given at or before the age of 16 years, before onset of sexual activity.

In November 2024, The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) published a research letter stating that studies from 2022 and 2023 indicated a 12 percent per year decline (overall, 65 percent reduction) in cervical cancer incidence from 2012 to 2019 among US women younger than 25 years who likely benefited from HPV vaccination.

A new nationwide cohort study from Sweden suggests that widespread HPV vaccination could substantially reduce the risk of precancerous lesions even among people who never received the vaccine.

HPV vaccination has been recommended for routine use in U.S. women since June 2006.

  • In Virginia, the HPV vaccine is required for all students, regardless of sex, prior to entry into 7th
  • Children who receive both doses of the vaccine before age 13 will receive the most protection.
  • Children who receive their first dose at the age of 15 or older will require three doses to complete the series.
  • The HPV vaccine is also recommended for people 26 years of age who did not start or complete the vaccination at an earlier age.
  • HPV vaccine recommendation for persons 27-45 years of age is based on shared clinical decision making.

According to data from VDH, as of Jan. 13, 2026, 74.1 percent of 13-year-olds in Richmond City and 73.3 percent of 13-year-olds in Henrico County have received at least one dose of the HPV vaccine series. Statewide, 76 percent of 13-year-olds have received least one dose of the HPV vaccine series.

As of Jan. 13, 2026, 47.4 percent of 18-year-olds in Richmond City and 70.4 percent of 18-year-olds in Henrico County have received the complete HPV vaccine series. Statewide, 62.7 percent of 18-year-olds have received the complete HPV vaccine series.

HPV and Cervical Cancer Data

According to data from CDC, HPV causes six different kinds of cancer, including almost all (91 percent) of cervical cancers. HPV also causes 70 percent of head and neck (oropharyngeal) cancers.

According to the National Cancer Institute’s State Cancer Profile, the rate of new cases of cervical cancer in Virginia has been decreasing steadily from 2017 to 2021. The rates of new cases in Richmond and Henrico were somewhat lower than the rate in Virginia during the same time period.

Screening and Care for Cervical Cancer

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) offers Every Woman’s Life (EWL), a public health program that helps uninsured, income-eligible women gain access to free breast and cervical cancer screening services. Screening and early detection reduce death rates, improve treatment options, and greatly increase rates of survival. If a woman enrolled in EWL is diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer she may be eligible for Medicaid to pay for treatment. Community members can use this link to find a EWL provider near them.

To be eligible for EWL, a woman must be a Virginia resident between the ages of 18-64, meet federal income guidelines and be uninsured. Women 18-39 must be symptomatic or be determined to be high risk for breast and/or cervical cancer to be eligible.

Visit rhhd.gov/connect-pc to locate primary care providers in the Richmond and Henrico area. Visit rhhd.gov/childhoodvax for more information on school-required immunizations. For information about RHHD’s clinical health resources and HPV vaccination schedule, call 804-205-3500 or visit rhhd.gov.

Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook.

 

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