Could HPV shots start earlier? study tests vaccine in kids as young as 4

NCT ID NCT05329961

First seen Jul 01, 2026 · Last updated Jul 01, 2026

Summary

This study looks at whether a 2-dose regimen of the Gardasil 9 HPV vaccine, given 12 months apart, triggers a strong immune response in children aged 4 to 8. The vaccine is currently approved for ages 9 and up, but this research explores if starting earlier could provide protection against HPV-related cancers. Researchers will measure antibody levels over four years and monitor for side effects like swelling at the injection site.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Gardasil 9 (9-valent HPV vaccine)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could support expanding HPV vaccination to children under 9, potentially preventing more HPV-related cancers later in life.

What could go wrong

This is an early exploratory study with only 155 children, so results may not apply broadly. The vaccine is not yet licensed for this age group, and immune responses may differ from older children.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

human papilloma virus infection prevention target

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Boston Medical Center

    Boston, Massachusetts, 02118, United States