HPV

(Human Papillomavirus) Vaccine, Gardasil

What is HPV?

HPV (human papillomavirus) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States. HPV is most common in young women and men and can cause genital warts in men and women, cervical cancer in women, and other types of cancer in both men and women. There are about 100 types of HPV.

What is the HPV Vaccine and who should get it?

A safe and effective vaccine called “Gardasil” is the first vaccine developed to prevent cervical cancer and genital warts due to HPV. The vaccine is recommended for girls and women 11- 26 years of age. The vaccine is highly effective in preventing four types of HPV in young women who have not been previously exposed to HPV. These four types have been found to be responsible for more than 70% of cervical cancers and 90% of genital warts. The vaccine will not treat existing HPV infections.

The vaccine is given in a series of three injections over a six-month period. The second and third doses are given at two and six months after the first dose. The most common side effects are soreness at the injection site. The length of the vaccine protection is not known since it is a new vaccine but studies have found that vaccinated persons are protected for at least five years. Girls and women who have been vaccinated still need regular cervical cancer screening (Pap test) as recommended by their healthcare providers.

Gardasil Vaccine is available at Student Health Services for a fee.

Students who are interested in getting vaccinated can either:

1. Schedule an appointment and request Gardasil, there is a fee for this vaccine.

You will meet with a healthcare provider who will answer your questions related to HPV or other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).

OR

2. Come by Student Health Services during or Walk–In Immunization Clinic.

You will receive information about the vaccine from a healthcare provider and you will be able to ask questions.