The HPV vaccine for children: why it’s important

Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States. It can cause cervical cancer as well as other types of cancer, such as throat and oral cancers. There is a vaccine available to help protect against these types of cancer in young people. The HPV vaccine is most effective when given before a person becomes sexually active. That's why it is recommended for preteens at ages 11 or 12, as this is around the time they start entering puberty and may be exposed to HPV. However, the vaccine can still provide some protection if given to older individuals who have not been exposed to all of the HPV strains covered by the vaccine. Additionally, the vaccine has been approved for use in individuals as young as 9 years old. Men and women up to age 45 can get vaccinated.

The HPV vaccine is a three-part series of injections given over a period of six months that helps protect against certain strains of the virus that can cause cancer. The vaccine works by stimulating an immune response to help prevent infection with those strains. It’s important to note that while the vaccine isn’t 100% effective, it does significantly reduce your risk of developing cancer caused by those strains.

There are several reasons why children should be vaccinated against HPV. Vaccinating children against HPV protects them from developing cancer in adulthood, provides lifetime immunity, reduces the risk of contracting and spreading the virus, and protects others from the virus as well. Getting vaccinated at a young age is crucial to ensure maximum protection. The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing the most dangerous strains of the virus, which cause approximately 70% of cervical cancers and 90% of genital warts. The vaccine has been extensively tested and has been deemed safe by numerous health organizations, including the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Moreover, vaccinating children also helps build herd immunity, which protects not only the vaccinated individuals but also the unvaccinated members of the community, particularly those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons. So, vaccinating your child against HPV not only protects their health but also contributes to the well-being of the community as a whole.

With all these benefits combined, it should be easy to see why vaccinating your child against HPV is so important! The bottom line is this: if you have kids, get them vaccinated against HPV. It could save their lives.