What is Gardasil?
The Gardasil 9 vaccine is used to protect against nine strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that causes genital warts, abnormal Pap tests, and cervical cancer. Men and women can get HPV from vaginal, oral, or anal sexual contact. Some strains of the virus (there are more than 100) can cause cancer of the cervix. People can be infected with HPV and not have symptoms. The virus can be transmitted when no symptoms are present.
There are three shots required to protect against nine strains of the virus. You must complete the series in order to be protected, and it takes six months to complete the vaccine series. Once you receive the first vaccine, you should receive the second dose 2 months later. The third dose may be administered six months after the first dose and 4 months after the second dose.
Who Should Get the Vaccine?
The vaccine has been approved for girls and women between the ages of 9 – 26 who are not yet sexually active. Gardasil 9 is also approved for use in boys and men ages 6-26.
UHCS follows the ACIP (American College of Immunization Practices) recommendation to offer HPV vaccine to women and men age 26 or younger. Students outside of the recommended age group can receive the vaccine at UHCS only if they have already started the 3-dose series.
If you are already sexually active and want the vaccine, Gardasil still may be appropriate for you. Please talk to your health care provider first. Men who want the vaccine (especially men who have sex with men) should make an appointment in the General Clinic where they can discuss the vaccine with their care provider.
Where Can I Get the Vaccine?
UHCS offers the Gardasil 9 vaccine. Pricing can be found on the price list page.
Learn More
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has more information regarding the disease and the vaccine found at the following links: