Eight Things You Need to Know About HPV

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus that can be found in men and women. The virus can cause cancers and viruses. It is extremely important to increase public knowledge of all aspects, from prevention to treatment.

This is where Whitman County Public Health (WCPH) steps in.

This is what WCPH says YOU need to know about HPV:

1. All preteens need HPV vaccinations so they can be protected from HPV infections that cause cancer. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends girls and boys, age 11 or 12, receive the vaccination. Each year in the US there are about 18,000 woman and 9,000 men affected by HPV related cancers.
   
2. The best thing to do in the scenario is to make people aware and inform them about HPV. Try to influence others to  get an HPV vaccination to reduce the possibility of getting this virus.
   
3. Young women can get the vaccination until they are 27 years old.
4. Young men can get the vaccination until they are 22 years old.
5. Men that have sex with other men or weakened immune systems can get it until 27 years old.
6. “HPV vaccines offer the best protection to girls and boys who complete the series and have time to develop an  immune response before they begin sexual activity with another person.”
   
7. Studies tell us that getting the HPV vaccine doesn't make kids more likely to start having sex. There is no evidence  available to suggest getting the HPV vaccine will have an effect on future fertility.
   
8. CDC website provides a lot of informational stats and information about HPV. It provides examples of questions, concerns, statistical information, and studies to back up their statements.