Prevention – The HPV Vaccine

The HPV Vaccine

Did you know?

  • That almost all cervical cancer is caused by persistent HPV infection.
  • The HPV vaccine is the best way to prevent cervical cancer.

Why should I get HPV Vaccine?

The HPV vaccine reduces your risk of human papillomavirus (HPV) contraction as well as cervical cancer.

Who is the HPV Vaccine For?

Females between the ages 9 and 26

  • Recommendations:
    • The Center for Disease Control recommends that all 11-12 year old girls receive all 3 doses of the vaccine, as it is best to receive the vaccine prior to any sexual contact.
    • Those above the age of 26 are not recommended to get the vaccine. By the age of 26, most adults have been exposed to HPV, and the HPV vaccine will not treat or get rid of existing HPV infections.  For this vaccine to be effective, it must be administered prior to any HPV exposure.

How many doses does it require?

The vaccine is administered in 3 doses over 6 months.

What are the HPV vaccine options?

The two types of HPV vaccines available: Cervarix from GlaxoSmithKline and Gardasil from Merck.

  • Cervarix: vaccinates for HPV types 16 and 18,the types most likely to cause cancer

  • Gardasil: vaccinates for HPV types 16 and 18, the types most likely to cause cancer, as well as HPV types 6 and 11, which are responsible for genital warts.

Is the HPV vaccine safe?

  • Both Gardasil and Cervarix have been licensed by the FDA, and over 46 million doses of the vaccine have been administered in the US alone.
  • Mild side effects may include pain where the shot was given, fever, headache, and nausea

For a complete list of FAQs, please  

 

To find out more about the cost of the HPV vaccine, go to the Next Page 

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