Human papillomavirus, also known as HPV, is an extremely common virus that affects many adults. In fact, it is estimated that 3 out of every 4 adults are infected with HPV before the age of 30 years old, even if they never know it themselves; every year approximately 13 million people become infected. HPV can be subclinical and present with no symptoms, but in some cases it causes warts or can lead to different types of cancer. There are at least six types of cancer that can be caused by HPV, including those of the throat, tongue & tonsils, cervix, vulva & vagina, penis, or anus. Although HPV is widely considered a sexually transmitted infection, it can be transferred from one person to another by skin to skin contact. 

Often, a person’s immune system can suppress HPV infection before it progresses, but there are times when the virus lingers and progresses to warts or cancer. The HPV vaccine exists to prevent these effects of the infection. A preteen or teenager’s body produces antibodies to HPV in response to the vaccine, and research has shown that more antibodies are produced when giving the vaccine at a younger age (such as 11-12 years old), meaning the vaccine is more effective. Potential side effects from the vaccine are mild and temporary: a sore arm, redness or swelling at the injection site, or in some cases there may be a mild fever. Since 2006, when the vaccine was initially licensed, there have been no serious effects from the vaccine reported. The vaccine has been shown to protect against more than 90% of HPV related cancers and almost 100% of cases of genital warts. For more information on HPV vaccination, check out this Healthy Children (AAP) FAQ article!

Here at Union Mill Pediatrics, we offer the HPV vaccine to children ages 11 years old and up as part of our vaccination schedule based on AAP and CDC guidelines. If you have questions regarding the vaccine or are looking to have your child vaccinated, please call to schedule an appointment with us!

Perkins, R. & French, R. (May 20, 2022). HPV: Facts About the Virus that Causes Cancer and How to Prevent It. Healthy Children. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/immunizations/Pages/are-your-kids-protected-from-cancer-caused-by-hpv.aspx 

CDC. (November 16, 2021). HPV Vaccination Recommendations. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/hpv/hcp/recommendations.html