Healthcare Job Seekers and the HPV Vaccine

by Alex A. Kecskes

In 2007, Texas Governor Rick Perry signed an executive order requiring girls to receive the HPV vaccine before entering the sixth grade. While the Governor’s “opt out” order raised the question of parental rights, it also dramatically raised the awareness of this terrible virus. If you’re considering a career in the healthcare field, you should be aware of the health implications of these vaccinations.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) notes that the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is “the most common sexually transmitted infection.” About 20 million Americans carry the virus and six million new cases are recorded annually. While most people fight off the virus with their immune system, nearly 12,000 women develop cervical cancer from it.

Aside from one mother who told Representative Michele Bachman that the vaccine left her daughter “retarded,” the CDC indicated that the only side effects of the HPV vaccines are “pain and redness where the shot is given” in the arm, “itching,” and mild or moderate fever.

Still, there are real issues to consider. The vaccine prevents only four of the over 30 strains of HPV. This raises the concern that these vaccinations may give tweens and teens a false sense of security. Moreover, some at the American Academy of Pediatrics believe that questions remain about the vaccine's effectiveness and possible side effects. The vaccine’s manufacturer, Merck has aggressively pushed for mandatory vaccinations, which can cost families $360 for a full series of shots.

Ultimately, the choice and responsibility for administering these vaccinations should rest with the family and advice from the family’s doctor.

For an added perspective, check out this video:

If you have any thoughts on the HPV vaccine, feel free to share them in the comments section.