Have you heard of the vaccine that protects against Human Papillomavirus, also known as HPV? You may have come across information about it in public health materials or at a healthcare clinic. The HPV vaccine helps protect against certain virus strains that can lead to serious health conditions, including several types of cancer. Here’s a simple explanation of what the vaccine does, and why it can be an important part of preventive care.
HPV is a very common virus. Three out of four 15- to 24-year-olds are exposed to HPV, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Some people clear these infections on their own, however, others go on to develop warts, or even cancer.
According to the AAP, 46,000 people are diagnosed with HPV-related cancer in the U.S. each year. While HPV’s connection to cervical cancer is relatively well known, while the infection is now more commonly associated with throat or mouth cancer. Several other rare cancers are also linked to HPV. The vaccine is important for both boys and girls, to reduce cancer risk.
Please be assured that studies have proven immunity is long-lasting. To help keep your child healthy, it is important that they are fully vaccinated before any potential exposure to HPV through intimate contact. The HPV vaccine is given now to protect your child from future infections.
You may think your child is too young for the HPV vaccine, but it’s important to consider that:
· Younger children have a stronger immune response to the vaccine than older children.
· Children ages 9-12 produce higher antibody levels after HPV vaccination than older teens and adults. Fewer doses of the vaccine are required for adequate protection if completed at a younger age.
· Ages 9-14 only need two doses
· Ages 15+require three doses
In the 20 years since HPV vaccines were first approved for children, those who have received the vaccine have been followed for side effects, and that monitoring continues. No serious side effects have ever been discovered in the two decades of observation.
If you have any questions or would like to get the HPV vaccine for your child, please contact your pediatrician’s office today!
