In a recent study, it has been found that boys and girls as young as 9 years of age are recommended to get vaccinated for the Human papillomavirus otherwise known as HPV.

“The young children 11-13 years who get the vaccine, have a better take or a better immune response to the vaccine then late teenagers or young adults.” Dr. David Kragenbrink of Dubuque Pediatrics explains.

This virus will likely affect an estimated 75% to 80% of males and famles in their lifetime.  This disease is very fast spreading because there are often no signs or symptoms present, meaning that people can receive the virus or pass it on with out even knowing it.

There are many different types of HPV present, but there are four that you should really know about: Cervical Cancer, Genital Warts, Vaginal cancer, as well as Vulvar Cancer.

Cancer cases within the HPV virus are not very common, less then 10% of people get some form of HPV cancer. But Kragenbrink explains, ” That is the viruses that we are most concerned about, as far as long term health problems, its estimated that about 6 million American’s will contract an HPV infection every year, if 10% of those are the cancer causing strains, do the math 600,000 people infected with potential cancer causing virus.”

Now, here is where the controversy is coming into play. Many people believe that by giving their children (both boys and girls) the HPV Vaccination, they are encouraging their children to engage in sexual activity.

“Well, I think the vaccine is a great idea, I have given the vaccine to my own children.” Dr. David Kragenbrink of Dubuque Pediatrics.

The HPV Vaccination Gardasil, that is available for children as well as young adults ages 9-26 years of age, is a three step vaccination.

“The vaccine is a three shot series, it’s spread out over six months, so you get the initial shot, second shot at a minimum of two months later, and a third shot a minimum of four months later.” Dr. David Kragenbrink.

If all three shots are taken, the chances of receiving these types of cancers are significantly reduced to almost 100%.

Helpful links: www. dbqpeds.com  , www.aap.org , www.cispimmunize.org, www.vaccine.org, www.cdc.gov/vaccines, www.vaccine.chop.edu , www.ecbt.org, www.immunize.org, www.vaccinesafety.edu, www.immunizationinfo.org, www.vaers.hhs.gov, and www.voicesforvaccines.org