Why does my child need HPV vaccine?
The GARDASIL®9 vaccine is given to protect your child from most of the cancers caused by a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. HPV is a common virus, that spreads between humans when they have sexual contact with another person. Approximately 14 million people, including teens, but not limited to young people become infected with HPV each year. An HPV infection can cause cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers in women and penile cancer in men. HPV can also cause anal cancer, throat cancer, and genital warts in both men and women.
When should my child be vaccinated?
The GARDASIL®9 vaccine is recommended for preteen boys and girls (age 11 -12), so they are protected before ever being exposed to the virus. The GARDASIL®9 vaccine also produces a higher immune response in preteens than in older adolescents. If your teen hasn’t received the vaccine, talk with your child’s Pediatrician and consider having them immunized as soon as possible.
The GARDASIL®9 vaccination is given in a series of three shots given over several months. Book your child’s remaining shots they need is to make an appointment for the remaining shots before you leave the doctor’s office or clinic.
What else should I know about GARDASIL®9 vaccine?
Girls should have the GARDASIL®9 vaccine to prevent HPV infections that can cause cancers of the anus, cervix, vagina, vulva, and the mouth/throat area. Boys need the GARDASIL®9 vaccination to prevent HPV infections, that can cause cancers of the anus, penis, and the mouth/throat area. The GARDASIL®9 vaccination can also prevent genital warts.
HPV vaccines have been studied very carefully. These studies showed no serious safety concerns. Common, mild adverse events (side effects) reported during these studies include pain in the arm where the shot was given, fever, dizziness and nausea. Some preteens and teens might faint after getting the vaccine or any shot. Preteens and teens should sit or lie down when they get a shot and stay like that for about 15 minutes after the shot. This can help prevent fainting and any injury that could happen while fainting. Serious side effects from the GARDASIL®9 vaccine are rare. It is important to tell the doctor or nurse if your child has any severe allergies, including an allergy to latex or yeast. The GARDASIL®9 vaccine is not recommended for anyone who is pregnant.
GARDASIL®9 is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine.
