Gardasil is one of two vaccines available for prevention of some strains of human papillomavirus (HPV). Specifically, Gardasil protects against the four strains of HPV that cause most cases of cervical cancer and genital warts. For these reasons, the CDC has recommended its use in females ages 11 to 26. The vaccine is not without controversy. While the reasons for taking the vaccine are obvious--reduction of the risk of cervical cancer and genital warts--the issues stated by those opposed to the vaccine may merit consideration.
Three Injections Are Required
To obtain protection, females must receive three injections spaced over a period of time. The second shot is given two months after the first, and the third shot is given four months after the second.
Gardasil Is Expensive.
According to the National Cancer Institute, each shot of Gardisil costs approximately $120 and may not be covered by insurance. This is cost-prohibitive for many families.
Gardasil Does Not Prevent All Cervical Cancer
Gardasil prevents 70 percent of cases of cervical cancer. This means that a woman must still be checked yearly for the disease and can still suffer its effects.
Gardasil Lasts an Indeterminate Amount of Time
The National Cancer Institute reports that the vaccine lasts for at least four years. It is not yet known how long the vaccine lasts and whether women will need to get a booster shot in the future.
Gardasil Has Side Effects
Like all vaccines, Gardasil has possible side effects. According to "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide," these include fever, dizziness, muscle pain, joint pain and diarrhea. Bruising, swelling and pain can also occur at the site of the injection. In August 2009, CBS News reported that more than 12,000 cases of side effects have been reported since 2006, with approximately 688 cases of hospitalization or permanent disability. Another 32 people have died (out of 700,000 doses) as a consequence of taking the vaccine. While these figures are in line with vaccines for other diseases, CBS News reports that the incidence of fainting was higher than expected.
References
- National Cancer Institute: Human Papillomavirus Vaccines
- CBS Evening News: Is the HPV Vaccine Safe?
- "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide"; Amy M. Karch, R.N., M.S.; 2010
