+ Video transcript
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[HealthyWomen logo] Why the HPV vaccine is important |
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SUPER: HPV = Human Papillomavirus HPV affects almost everyone Image: Large group of people, almost all of them have the same color |
Narrator: You’ve probably heard of HPV, but did you know that almost all of us will get it at some point? HPV stands for human papillomavirus. It is the most common sexually transmitted infection and spreads so easily that almost everyone who has sex will get HPV at some point in their life. Using condoms can protect you from some HPV viruses, but they do not provide complete protection against the virus. |
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SUPER: HPV can cause cancer in:
SUPER: More than 9 out of 10 cases of cervical cancer Image: 9 out of 10 people |
HPV is often harmless. It causes no symptoms and can go away on its own. Many people don’t even notice it. However, if your body doesn’t clear the virus, it can cause cervical cancer, head and neck cancer, and cancers of the anus, vulva, vagina, and penis. In fact, more than 9 out of 10 cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV. |
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Cartoon superwoman in a cape with “HPV Vaccine” written on the front of her suit, standing with her hands on her hips in the “I’m here to save the day” pose SUPER: Prevents 9 out of 10 cancers |
The good news? There is an HPV vaccine and it works really well. More than 9 out of 10 cancers caused by HPV can be prevented with vaccination. |
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SUPER: HPV vaccine ≠ live virus Show Superwoman on a board writing Xs and O’s like a soccer schedule. |
The vaccine doesn’t actually contain HPV, but it teaches your immune system to recognize the virus so it can protect you if you ever become infected. |
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SUPER: Who should receive the HPV vaccine?
(Show pictures of people who match the words.) |
The HPV vaccine works best if you get it years before you start having sex. Therefore it is recommended for children between 11 and 12 years old. Additionally, younger people have a stronger immune response to the vaccine, meaning protection may be more effective and last longer. The CDC also recommends HPV vaccination for people age 26 and younger who have not yet been vaccinated, as well as some adults ages 26 to 45. |
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IMAGE: HCP and person in conversation |
Your doctor can help you determine whether you should get vaccinated. |
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Woman in doctor’s office, in gown with feet in stirrups, on examination table with doctor at end of table SUPER: Continue to get checked and practice safe sex |
Even though the HPV vaccine works very well, it does not protect against all types of cervical cancer. And it does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections. That’s why you should get regular Pap and HPV tests even if you’re vaccinated – and always practice safe sex with a condom. |
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Woman sits in a doctor’s office with her daughter and son and talks to her pediatrician Children get the vaccine. |
HPV is difficult to avoid, but you can take steps to protect yourself and your children from cancers caused by the virus. Talk to your family’s healthcare provider about scheduling the vaccine. |
This resource was created with support from Merck.
