Question: What is the HPV Vaccine?
Answer: The human papillomavirus (HPV)vaccine is an immunization given to young women to prevent the HPV virus. HPV is extremely common and can lead to cervical cancer and genital warts.
Gardasil, an HPV vaccine approved by the FDA, is currently available at doctor's offices across the country and soon may be available in public health clinics.
Gardasil protects against two strains of HPV that are known to cause cervical cancer. It also prevents two strains of the virus that cause genital warts. Gardasil is currently being offered to young women ages 9-26, with a target age of 11-12. The goal is to vaccinate girls before they become sexually active.
Another vaccine, Cervarix, will seek FDA approval in April 2007. While Cervarix only protects against two cancer causing strains of HPV, it also has an immune system booster, creating a better defense against HPV.
The HPV vaccine is a very controversial issue. It is currently not required for school entry, however it may happen in the future. Many family advocacy groups feel that vaccinating young girls against HPV may give girls the idea that unprotected, pre-marital sex is okay.
Gardasil, an HPV vaccine approved by the FDA, is currently available at doctor's offices across the country and soon may be available in public health clinics.
Gardasil protects against two strains of HPV that are known to cause cervical cancer. It also prevents two strains of the virus that cause genital warts. Gardasil is currently being offered to young women ages 9-26, with a target age of 11-12. The goal is to vaccinate girls before they become sexually active.
Another vaccine, Cervarix, will seek FDA approval in April 2007. While Cervarix only protects against two cancer causing strains of HPV, it also has an immune system booster, creating a better defense against HPV.
The HPV vaccine is a very controversial issue. It is currently not required for school entry, however it may happen in the future. Many family advocacy groups feel that vaccinating young girls against HPV may give girls the idea that unprotected, pre-marital sex is okay.
