Full Notification

According to the CDC, Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most commonly sexually transmitted infection in the US. Many people do not know, or realize, when they are infected with the virus. A person infected with human papillomavirus can develop genital warts. HPV infections can cause various types of cancer in men and women such as cervical cancer, throat cancer, anal cancer, vulvar and vaginal cancer, cancer of the penis.

Administering the 3-dose series of HPV vaccine before a person becomes sexually active is the most effective means of prevention. HPV vaccine prevents genital warts in males. It also prevents cancers of the throat, anus and penis in males. The vaccine also protects females against cancers of the cervix, vagina, anus and vulva.

HPV vaccine provides the best level of immunity in males and females between the ages of 11 to 12. The vaccine can be given to males and females up through age 26. Even if a person has become sexually active, receiving the vaccine will offer protection.

Bloomfield Health & Human Services, Public Health Nursing Office provides this vaccine at no cost to uninsured or underinsured. For those with insurance, referrals can be made to providers who can administer the vaccine.

For more information, please contact Bloomfield Public Health Nursing at 973.680.4058 or [email protected]