MONTGOMERY-The Alabama Department of Public Health, Immunization Division, wants to increase awareness about a cancer-prevention vaccine, human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. The HPV vaccine has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for both males and females to protect young children from cancer. The vaccine is routinely given at 11 or 12 years of age, but it may be given beginning at age 9 years through age 26 years.
“HPV is such a common virus, and nearly all men and women contract it at some point in their lives. The danger of HPV is the nine different types of strains of infection it causes, seven of which are cancer causing,” said Dr. Karen Landers, District Medical Officer.
Dr. Karen Landers
Since its introduction in 2006, HPV vaccine has consistently demonstrated effectiveness by decreasing the number of infections and HPV precancers in young people. The vaccine underwent years of extensive safety testing before being licensed by the FDA. According to the National Cancer Institute, the HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing infection when given before initial exposure to the virus.
In an effort to increase awareness of the HPV vaccine and its benefits, public health is conducting a video contest in partnership with the Alabama Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) that will be open to teenagers who reside in Alabama, ages 15-19. Videos should focus on the occupations or activities they would like to have in the future without the threat of cancers caused by HPV.
A panel of judges comprised of ADPH Immunization staff, Cancer Prevention staff, and the AAP will review the video submissions and select the winning video. Submissions are due by December 15, 2017, and the winning video will be announced on December 29, 2017. The winner of the contest will receive a $250 gift card from Target, as well as be promoted on the Public Health website.
“Our goal is to educate both young children and parents about the importance of getting vaccinated,” said Dr. Landers. “This is a vaccine that can save lives and allow young Alabamians to have a healthier future.”
For more information on vaccination or the HPV contest, please visit alabamapublichealth.gov/
Media Release/Karen Landers, M.D., F.A.A.P./ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH
