Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted disease that can cause cervical cancer and genital warts. The Centers for Disease Control estimated that 50% of sexually active men and women are infected with HPV. Now, there is a vaccine that will help prevent these diseases by targeting four types of HPV. Included in the vaccine, are two types of HPV that cause 70% of cervical cancers and two types of HPV that cause 90% of genital warts.

Routine vaccination is recommended for girls 11-12 years of age, but can be given to females through 26 years of age. It is important that girls get this vaccine before becoming sexually active because once infected with a type of HPV, the vaccine will not prevent disease from that type. The HPV vaccine is given in a 3-dose series. Call your health insurance carrier to check coverage for the HPV vaccine. If you have any questions regarding the HPV vaccine, call your physician or Bullitt County Health Department.