As a parent, you want to do everything you can to protect your child’s health. One important way to do this is to make sure they are vaccinated against the human papillomavirus (HPV). This Parent’s Guide to Preteen and Teen HPV Vaccination will provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about this important vaccine.
How Common is HPV?
You might be surprised to learn just how common HPV is. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most American adults will get at least one type of HPV infection at some point in their lives. Think about that – it’s a really widespread virus!
Right now, about 79 million Americans are infected with HPV, and around 14 million new infections occur each year. While many HPV infections go away on their own, some can linger and lead to serious health problems.
HPV is the main cause of nearly all cervical cancers in women. But it doesn’t just affect women. Recent studies have shown that HPV is also linked to the majority (70%) of oropharyngeal cancers in the United States. These are cancers of the back of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils, and they occur more often in men.
Why Vaccinate Preteens and Teens?
The ideal time for your child to receive the HPV vaccine is when they are 11 or 12 years old, but it can be given as early as age 9. The vaccine is administered in a series of two or three shots, depending on their age. It’s important to know that the HPV vaccine works best when given before a person becomes sexually active. This is because it prevents HPV infection rather than treating it. Once someone is infected with HPV, the vaccine’s effectiveness is reduced.
Preteens and teens have a superpower when it comes to this vaccine: their immune systems! Their bodies have a stronger response to the vaccine compared to adults. This means that getting the HPV vaccine during these years provides the best chance of long-lasting protection against HPV infection.
Is HPV Vaccination Safe?
You’re absolutely right to be concerned about your child’s safety! It’s perfectly natural to have questions about any vaccine before it’s given to your child. When it comes to the HPV vaccine, you can rest assured that safety is a top priority. The HPV vaccine is about cancer prevention, not promoting sexual activity. It’s similar to other childhood vaccines that protect against diseases like measles or mumps. Vaccinating your child provides protection regardless of when they may become sexually active.
The HPV vaccine has an excellent safety track record. It has been rigorously studied and monitored for over 15 years, with millions of doses administered worldwide. These studies consistently show that the vaccine is safe and effective. Like most vaccines, there can be some mild and temporary side effects. The most common one is pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site. This is usually nothing to worry about and goes away within a day or two.
Fainting can sometimes happen after any injection, especially in adolescents. To minimize this risk, your child will likely be asked to sit or lie down for about 15 minutes after getting the vaccine. Other less common side effects include headache, mild fever, or nausea, which are typically short-lived. Serious side effects, such as severe allergic reactions, are extremely rare. Healthcare providers are well-trained to handle these situations should they occur.
Getting the HPV Vaccination
Your child’s doctor is your best source of information when it comes to the HPV vaccine. They can provide personalized guidance based on your child’s health history and answer any specific questions you might have. Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment to discuss your concerns and make sure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Fortunately, most insurance plans cover the HPV vaccine for children and teens. It’s a good idea to check with your insurance provider to understand the specifics of your coverage, such as any co-pays or deductibles that might apply.
If you don’t have insurance, there are still options available. The Vaccines for Children program (VFC) may offer free or low-cost HPV vaccination for eligible children and teens. You can learn more about the VFC program and its eligibility requirements by contacting your child’s doctor or local health department.
Talk to Your Child’s Doctor
The HPV vaccine is a powerful tool to protect your child from preventable cancers. By vaccinating them, you’re providing a crucial layer of defense for their future health and well-being. Don’t hesitate to talk to your child’s doctor – it’s a conversation that could save their life. They are the best resource for personalized guidance and ensuring your child receives the necessary vaccinations to stay healthy. If you don’t have a pediatrician and are in need of immunizations, please make an appointment with Lawton Community Health Center.
Resources:
https://www.immunize.org/wp-content/uploads/catg.d/p4250.pdf
https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/hpv/hcp/recommendations.html
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/hpv-vaccine.html
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