Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine

Genital human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted virus in the United States . HPV can lead to cancers that rank as the 10 th leading cause of death for American women. HPV also causes millions of cases of genital warts and cervical dysplasia, a pre-cancerous condition with high physical, emotional and monetary costs.

The new HPV vaccine offers protection against cervical cancer, pre-cancerous cervical lesions and genital warts caused by four types of human papillomavirus (HPV). The vaccination comprises a three part series of intramuscular injections. The second injection is given two months after the first and the third injection is given four months later. The vaccine doesn't contain any live virus. It is recommended that girls be vaccinated at the age of 11 or 12 or as early as 9 with a doctor's recommendation. Also, it is recommended that girls and women between the ages of 13 and 26 get a “catch-up” vaccine. Because the vaccine doesn't protect against 30% of cancer causing HPV types, vaccinated women still must start or continue their doctor recommended pap smear screenings.

For more information: www.cdc.gov/std/hpv/STDFact-HPV-vaccine.htm

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