Nevada Cancer Coalition reaffirms support for multi-dose HPV vaccination schedule

On Jan. 5, 2026, the Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services accepted a major revision to the standing U.S. childhood and adolescent immunization schedule. Among the changes was a reduction in the recommended human papillomavirus vaccination series from two or three doses to a single dose for all children.

Given the current body of evidence and in the interest of effective cancer prevention, the Nevada Cancer Coalition will continue to recommend the multi-dose HPV vaccine schedule. Our position aligns with the American Cancer Society, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the State of Nevada and immunization partners across the state.

Partner input across Nevada

To inform this position, 12 partners representing Nevada’s public health and clinical workforce, and reflecting the state’s diverse geography, provided insight. Statements were de-identified and reviewed alongside formal position statements from clinical partners.

As of February, all partners reported continuing to forecast and provide HPV vaccine recommendations according to pre-January guidance. Four noted they are reviewing updated guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Cancer Society. Two indicated they are awaiting additional updates from the CDC, particularly related to HPV Vaccine Information Sheets, which were last updated in 2021, as well as further direction from the state.

The State of Nevada has announced it will adhere to Nevada Revised Statute and Nevada Administrative Code, which remain consistent with the pre-January 2026 vaccine schedule.

Insurance coverage remains in place

Several partners expressed concern about potential payment barriers for the multi-dose series. At this time, no changes have been made to coverage for the multi-dose HPV series through the Vaccines for Children Program or the 317 Vaccine Program. In addition, Health and Human Services has declared that all immunizations recommended prior to January 2026 will continue to be fully covered under the Affordable Care Act and federal insurance plans, including Medicaid.

Why the multi-dose schedule matters

Three partners voiced strong support for continuing the multi-dose HPV vaccine series and encouraged alignment with the American Cancer Society and the American Academy of Pediatrics.

One partner noted that “the current trials lack data to support an evidence-based decision to routinely move to a one dose series.”

It is also important to note:

• No HPV vaccine manufacturers in the United States are currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to provide a one-dose schedule vaccine.
• The vaccine used in the United States since 2016, Gardasil 9, was approved based on a multi-dose schedule and protects against nine types of HPV responsible for the majority of HPV-related cancers and genital warts.
• Current data from one-dose studies do not demonstrate effectiveness in reducing HPV-related cancers beyond cervical cancer. Additional research is needed to better understand the impact on other HPV-associated cancers.

Our commitment to cancer prevention

HPV vaccination is one of the most powerful tools we have to prevent cancer. The Nevada Cancer Coalition remains committed to evidence-based recommendations that prioritize long-term protection against multiple HPV-related cancers, including cervical, anal, oropharyngeal and other cancers.

We will continue to monitor guidance from national and international health authorities and work closely with partners across Nevada to ensure families, providers and policymakers have clear, accurate information grounded in science.

Protecting Nevadans from preventable cancers requires vigilance, collaboration and a steadfast commitment to what the evidence supports. At this time, that means continuing to recommend the multi-dose HPV vaccine series for all children starting at age 9.

This article created with the assistance of AI and edited by NCC staff. This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional.