Vaccines are one of the most effective tools for preventing some sexually transmitted diseases, but they do not exist for every STD. In this guide, you will learn which STDs have vaccines, who they are recommended for, and which ones are still in development. You will also see how vaccination fits alongside testing, condoms, and honest conversations with partners. This is general information, not medical advice, so talk with a healthcare provider about what is right for you.
Key Takeaways
- Vaccines are available for HPV, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and mpox.
- No licensed vaccine exists for HIV, herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis.
- HPV and hepatitis B vaccines are part of routine US immunization schedules.
- Vaccination does not replace testing, condoms, or regular sexual health checkups.
- Ask a healthcare provider which vaccines match your age, health, and risk factors.
Which STDs Have Vaccines Today?
Four vaccines currently protect against infections that can spread through sex: HPV, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and mpox. The HPV vaccine is the best known. It prevents the types of human papillomavirus that cause most cervical cancers, genital warts, and several other cancers in both men and women. The hepatitis B vaccine protects against a virus that can cause long-term liver damage and is easily passed during sex. The hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for some adults, including men who have sex with men, because the virus can spread through sexual contact. The mpox vaccine is recommended for people at higher risk during outbreaks. See our HPV vaccine guide for more detail. A healthcare provider can tell you which of these vaccines fit your age, health, and risk factors.
STD Vaccine List at a Glance
| STD | Vaccine available? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| HPV | Yes | Recommended for preteens and many adults through age 45 |
| Hepatitis B | Yes | Part of routine childhood and adult schedules |
| Hepatitis A | Yes | Recommended for some adults based on risk |
| Mpox | Yes | For people at higher risk during outbreaks |
| HIV | No | Research continues; PrEP and condoms reduce risk |
| Genital herpes | No | No licensed vaccine yet |
| Chlamydia | No | No licensed vaccine yet |
| Gonorrhea | No | No licensed vaccine yet |
| Syphilis | No | No licensed vaccine yet |
| Trichomoniasis | No | No licensed vaccine yet |
Who Should Get STD Vaccines
- Preteens ages 11 to 12 for HPV and hepatitis B, per routine schedules
- Adults through age 26 who were not vaccinated against HPV
- Some adults ages 27 to 45, after talking with a provider
- Men who have sex with men, for hepatitis A and B and mpox
- People with new or multiple sex partners, or a partner with hepatitis B
- People who inject drugs, for hepatitis A and hepatitis B
Why Some STDs Still Have No Vaccine
Some of the most common STDs do not have a licensed vaccine yet. HIV, genital herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis are all in this group. Each one is hard to target for different reasons. HIV mutates quickly and hides inside the immune system, which makes a broadly protective vaccine a major scientific challenge. Herpes viruses can stay dormant in nerve cells and reactivate, so a vaccine must do more than block the first infection. Bacteria such as chlamydia and gonorrhea have complex outer surfaces that are difficult for the immune system to recognize and attack. Researchers are studying several vaccine candidates, and some early trials have shown promising results, but no product is approved for public use today. In the meantime, testing and treatment remain the main tools. Our guide on which STDs are curable explains more.
How Vaccination Fits With Testing and Safer Sex
Vaccines lower your risk, but they do not cover every STD. The HPV and hepatitis B vaccines are very effective against the infections they target, yet they will not protect you from chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, or herpes. That is why vaccination works best as one layer of a broader prevention plan. Use condoms or dental dams, especially with new partners. Get tested regularly, since many STDs cause no symptoms at all. See STDs without symptoms and how often to get tested for guidance. Talk with partners about testing and condom use before sex. If you are at higher risk of HIV, ask a provider about PrEP, a daily medicine that lowers your risk. Our STD prevention guide covers more options. No single step removes all risk, but layering these habits makes a real difference.
Cost, Access, and Where to Get Vaccinated
Most health insurance plans cover recommended vaccines, including HPV, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B, often with no copay when you use an in-network provider. If you are uninsured or underinsured, there are still options. Community health centers, local health departments, and pharmacies may offer low-cost or free vaccines through federal programs. The Vaccines for Children program covers eligible children and teens through age 18. See our pages on free testing options and insurance coverage for related help. You can also ask about vaccines during a routine visit or a sexual health checkup. A pharmacist or nurse can explain which vaccines you need and when. For personalized advice about your own health, talk with a qualified healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a vaccine for chlamydia?
No. There is no licensed vaccine for chlamydia. Research is ongoing, but for now chlamydia is treated with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Can I get an STD vaccine at a pharmacy?
Yes. Many pharmacies in the US offer HPV, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B vaccines. Availability and age rules vary by state, so call ahead or check the pharmacy website.
Does the HPV vaccine protect against other STDs?
No. The HPV vaccine only protects against human papillomavirus. It does not prevent chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, or herpes.
How long does protection from STD vaccines last?
HPV and hepatitis B vaccines provide long-lasting protection for most people, and hepatitis A protection is also long-lasting. Mpox protection depends on the number of doses and your risk level, so ask a provider if you need a booster.