Nov 19, 2014 4 min read

Q.Will you answer a question about HPV? My mom took me to the doctor when I was 12, and I had the vaccine. I’m glad. I feel I’m protected from a virus I know is really common. I haven’t had sex yet, and I know I’m not ready. I also know I will eventually. My mom is really open with me, and she’s helped me understand things like love. You’ve helped a lot, too. Here’s my question. My brother is 12. I think he should have the HPV vaccine, too. My mom said it’s only for girls. I googled and found that’s not true, but she said the Internet lies. I know she’ll listen to you. Shouldn’t my brother have it, too?

16-year-old

Mary Jo’s response: Great question. I’m so pleased you and your mom talk about important things like love and relationships. I’m also very happy you’re self-aware and know you’re not ready for sex.

HPV is short for human papillomavirus. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), HPV is a common virus. It is the most common STI (sexually transmitted infection) in the United States. Here are some staggering numbers: about 79 million Americans are currently infected with HPV, and there are about 14 million new infections each year.

There are more than 40 strains of HPV that can affect the mouth, genitals or throat of an exposed person. Almost all sexually involved individuals will be exposed to HPV at some time in their lives, but most people will not know it. It is possible to spread the virus skin to skin. Spreading HPV without knowing a person is carrying the virus can make the virus difficult to prevent.

The body naturally fights off most strains of HPV. If a person’s immune system does not fight off HPV, health problems like genital warts or cancer can result. Only a few strains of HPV cause genital warts or cancer.

HPV vaccines were developed to prevent infection with human papillomavirus. In 2006, they were only recommended for girls, but in 2012, after much debate, the CDC recommended routine vaccination for boys. There are two HPV vaccines – Cervarix and Gardasil – that prevent the types of HPV that cause cancers. Only Gardisil was tested and licensed for males. Currently, the HPV vaccine is recommended for preteen girls ages 11 and 12, as well as young women ages 13 to 26. Males ages 13 to 21 should receive the vaccine to help prevent cancers of the throat and genitals. When boys are vaccinated, they are less likely to spread HPV to their current and future partners.

Clinical studies show the HPV vaccines provide close to 100 percent protection against precancers and HPV4, the virus causing genital warts. Since 2006, there has been a 56 percent reduction in HPV infections in teen girls in the United States.

The HPV vaccine is given in three injections over six months. A resource to help parents decide about HPV is found at http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/hpv/downloads/dis-hpv-color-office.pdf. I also suggest your mom talk with your health care provider to get a medical opinion on giving the vaccine to your brother.

Q.People probably think I’m weird, but I haven’t had sex yet, and I’m 27. I called a gyne MD and asked if I could have the HPV vaccine. I was told the cutoff for the exam is 26. Why? And the office lady made me feel like she thought I was lying about my experience. BTW, I’m a former student!

27-year-old

Mary Jo’s response:The HPV vaccine is most effective when given prior to sexual contact. The virus is easy to spread. Most health care providers agree taking the vaccine late is better than not taking it. I’m afraid the 26-year cutoff may be based on the belief that most people have had sexual contact by that age. Each person is different. I believe you. Did you speak to your health-care provider or only the office receptionist? Why not make an appointment with the gyne doctor and ask the MD directly? Good luck.