HPV vaccine now available
To make an appointment call 845-437-5818.
Facts About HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
- Very common viral infection which affects both men and women
- Approximately 50% or more of sexually active people will get HPV
- Most HPV infections don’t cause any symptoms and go away on their own
- While there are over 100 types of the virus most of these are relatively harmless and the immune system will be activated to control the infection.
However, about 30 types affect the genital area in the form of:- No symptoms (most common)
- Genital warts
- Cervical cancer
- Vulvar cancer
- Anal cancer (in men and women)
Detection (and Prevention) of HPV
- Regular gynecological exams can pick up condylomata (genital warts) or abnormal Pap smears, although these changes can take months to years to show up
- Long-term monogamous relationships and using condoms are believed to limit the risk of contracting HPV
- HPV Vaccination*
*HPV Vaccine is currently only approved for use in women under the age of 26
What is the HPV Vaccination (Garasil)?
- HPV vaccine is an inactivated (not live) vaccine which will help prevent infection with the four major viral types that can cause cancer and genital warts, though it does not work against all types of HPV.
- Since Gardasil was recently approved (Summer 06), health insurance companies may not yet cover it, however it is available at Vassar for $150.00 per shot (a total of three shots are needed).
The effects of HPV can be serious. 7,300 women suffer from cervical cancer in the U.S. every year and many more develop genital warts. Take care of yourself by going for regular gynecological exams and look into getting vaccinated, whether or not you are sexually active (this includes any genital contact, not just intercourse).
To make an appointment call 845-437-5818.