HPV Vaccine

 

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine

HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States.  Approximately 79 million Americans are currently infected with HPV, and 14 million people become newly infected each year.  HPV is spread via skin to skin sexual contact, and most people who become infected have no symptoms, and are unaware they are infected.

Cancer is the most serious possible complication from HPV infection. Each year 26,000 new cancers are attributable to HPV.  In both men and women it can cause cancer of the mouth/throat (oropharyngeal) and anal cancer. It can also cause cancers of the cervix, vulva, and vagina in women and cancer of the penis in men.

All parents need to know the HPV vaccine is considered cancer prevention. The HPV vaccine is recommended for both preteen boys and girls starting at age 11 or 12 so they are protected before ever being exposed to the virus. The vaccination is given as a series of 3 injections over several months, and it is important for children to receive all 3 injections to get the best protection.

For more information parents, click HERE to read Inspira Health’s article “Should My Daughter (or Son) Get the HPV Vaccine?”

The vaccine is covered by most insurance plans and free vaccines are available at local health departments for children and adolescents who are Medicaid-eligible or uninsured. The Region 10 Cancer and Chronic Disease Coalition is currently partnered with Lakeside Middle School and Memorial High School, both in Millville NJ-Cumberland County , to assist in educating parents and raise awareness about the importance of children receiving the HPV vaccine.

Please talk to your child’s pediatrician, school nurse, or local health department to learn more on the HPV vaccine. For more information you can log on to the following websites:

www.cdc.gov/vaccines/teens

 

HPV vaccine HPV1 HPV2 HPV3 HPV4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

References:

http://www.cdc.gov/hpv

http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/hpv/statistics/cases.htm