Why Both Boys and Girls Need the HPV Vaccine

Human papillomavirus is now the most generally sexually transmitted disease out there. That’s why both boys and girls need the HPV vaccine. Everything parents need to know about protecting their children from the human papillomavirus with the HPV vaccine is here.

HPV (human papillomavirus) is the most common opportunistic sexually transmitted infection in the United States, which can be prevented by the HPV vaccine. As per the report of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly all sexually active men and women will contract HPV at some point. In the late teens and early 20s, it’s more likely to be transmitted by genital touch at any other time of the year.

What Is the Optimal Age for Receiving the HPV Vaccine?

Vaccination against HPV is advised for all females between the ages of 11 and 12, but it can also be given to those who are nine years old. Women ages 13 to 26 who haven’t had the vaccine may also be advised to get it. In order to protect against HPV, the HPV vaccine’s age limit is commonly set at 26 years old. As a result, some adults between the ages of 27 and 45 who haven’t been vaccinated against HPV may elect to obtain the vaccine following a consultation with their doctor.

Between 9 and 26, both males and females are eligible for vaccination with the HPV. In boys, it is routinely delivered between the ages of 11 and 12 as a preventative immunization, while it can be given as early as 9 years old. It is hypothesized that immunizing boys against HPV reduces its spread, hence reducing the risk of cervical cancer in girls. Additionally, the HPV vaccine for males may reduce the incidence of various HPV-caused malignancies, including those of the penis, throat, and genitals.

Are there any vaccinations for HPV?

Two doses of the HPV vaccine are recommended for children ages 9-15; the second dose is given six to 12 months later. When your child is already 15, he or she will need three vaccinations over the course of six months.

A vaccination against HPV is essential before engaging in sexual activity. Young people should be vaccinated against HPV as early in life as possible, which is why the recommended schedule for HPV vaccinations was created. This is because the vaccine works best in people who haven’t been exposed to HPV yet. Your child’s chance of catching HPV increases as soon as they are sexually active.

The HPV Vaccine: Is it Worth the Cost?

Vaccination against HPV is strongly recommended by most doctors because the virus is so prevalent and can cause cancer. Cervical cancer is caused by HPV each year, and it claims the lives of tens of thousands of women. In addition to cervical cancer, the vaccination can protect against penis, anus, vagina, vulva, and throat cancers, as well as other types of sexually transmitted cancers.

According to the American Cancer Society, the vaccine can prevent more than 90% of HPV-caused malignancies in girls and boys between the ages of 9 and 12.

However, there is no proof that the vaccine can protect your child from HPV types that he or she has previously been exposed to. HPV vaccine efficacy does not appear to diminish with time, according to research and studies.

The HPV Vaccine Is Not for Everyone.

Pregnant women are not recommended to receive the HPV vaccine at this time, per the CDC. For now, there is insufficient evidence to draw any firm conclusions on the safety of the HPV vaccine for unborn children. Additionally, there are a number of persons who should not be vaccinated:

A previous dosage of the HPV vaccination or a strong response to latex or yeast (a small amount is in this vaccine) are contraindications. Wait until you’re feeling better before getting vaccinated if you have a more serious illness (like a cold).

Are There Any Adverse Reactions to the HPV Vaccine?

FDA approval and extensive clinical trials have shown that the HPV vaccine is safe and effective, according to the American Cancer Society. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 270 million doses have been distributed worldwide, and HPV vaccine side effects are rarely serious. The most common adverse effects are pain at the injection site, dizziness, nausea, headache, fever, and fainting. After taking the vaccine, it is recommended that you sit or lie down for 15 minutes to lower your risk of fainting.

Severe adverse reactions to the vaccine are extremely rare, although they can occur. Call your doctor immediately if your kid experiences difficulty breathing, hoarseness or wheezing, hives, paleness, weakness, dizziness, or a rapid heartbeat following a vaccination. The long-term negative effects of the HPV vaccine have not been documented.

What is the HPV Vaccine’s Price Range?

The HPV vaccine is usually covered by most health insurance policies. Check out the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program, which provides financial assistance to families to vaccinate their children until they turn 18. They must be uninsured, Medicaid-eligible, or American Indian or Alaska Native to qualify. The CDC has further information on its website if you’re interested.

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