HPV Vaccine
The HPV vaccine is a safe and effective vaccine that prevents cancer caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). There are more than 150 types of HPV. The HPV vaccine prevents cancer-causing types of the virus.
About HPV
About 79 million Americans have some kind of HPV. That means almost 25 percent of the US population. Most people who have the virus do not know they have it.
HPV mainly affects the genitals, the mouth, and the throat. It is spread through skin-to-skin and sexual contact.
Types of HPV cause nearly all cases of cervical cancer. HPV can cause other cancers that affect both men and women: cancer of the vulva, vagina, penis, anus, and the back of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils.
How to Get the HPV Vaccine
Talk to your child鈥檚 pediatrician about getting the vaccine. Girls ages 9-26 and boys ages 9-21 can get the HPV vaccine. It is recommended for these age groups because immune systems respond more strongly at a young age.
The HPV vaccine is given over a 6-month period.
- If you are under the age of 15 you will need 2 doses.
- If you are over the age of 15, you will need 3 doses. It is important to receive all 3.
Hepatitis B Vaccine
Infection from the hepatitis B virus or hepatitis C virus can cause damage to the liver. This damage can lead to liver cancer. Both viruses spread when blood or other body fluids of an infected person enters the body of a person not infected. Currently, there is no vaccine for hepatitis C, but there is a vaccine for hepatitis B.
How to Get the Hepatitis B Vaccine
Anyone can receive the HepB vaccine, starting at birth. Most American children receive the HepB vaccine as part of the . Talk to your child鈥檚 pediatrician if you are not sure your child has had the vaccine.
If you don鈥檛 know whether you have had the HepB vaccine, talk with your doctor.