HPV Awareness
Protect Your Child: What You Need to Know About HPV in Macon, Savannah, and Augusta
As teenagers grow and become more curious about sex, it’s crucial they are equipped with the right information to promote healthy behaviors. This includes understanding common STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections)—how to prevent them and how to deal with them. One of the most common but lesser-known STIs in the US is Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
Special Focus on Macon, Savannah, and Augusta
Healthy Savannah, East Georgia Cancer Coalition, and Georgia Campaign for Adolescent Power & Potential (GCAPP) join CHC: Creating Healthier Communities to focus on vaccination equity to prevent cervical cancer in Macon, Savannah, Augusta, and the surrounding areas. The multifaceted collaboration, consisting of community-based nonprofit organizations, community leaders, local corporations, and health centers, will reach community members with primary prevention information related to human papillomavirus (HPV) and increase the number of individuals referred for HPV prevention.
Cervical cancer—the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide—is primarily caused by HPV. Cancers caused by HPV are preventable. Interventions, including HPV vaccination, could prevent more than 90% of cancers caused by HPV from ever developing.
The overall incidence rate in Georgia is slightly greater in rural Georgians who face greater systemic barriers to good health and healthcare. Cervical cancer rates tend to be particularly high when access to healthcare and prevention services are hindered by unmet social needs. Georgia at 62% lags behind the US overall in up-to-date HPV vaccination.
Through targeted outreach, educational campaigns, and accessible vaccination clinics, this initiative aims to empower families with the knowledge and resources necessary to protect their children from HPV-related cancers. By promoting the importance of early vaccination and regular health screenings, we strive to create a healthier future for our youth and reduce the incidence of cervical and other HPV-related cancers in our communities.
For more information on HPV in Macon, Savannah, and Augusta, please check out the following links:
What is HPV?
HPV is the most common STI in the United States and has many different types. While some types of HPV can cause health problems like genital warts and cancers, it is important to note that HPV is different from HIV and HSV (herpes).
How Can HPV Be Spread?
The most common ways to get an HPV infection is from oral, vaginal, or anal sex with an infected person. Infection can also be acquired from skin-to-skin contact with areas infected by HPV. It is possible to have HPV and not know it, so a person can unknowingly spread HPV to another person.
When should my teenager be vaccinated?
All kids who are 11 or 12 years old should get two shots of HPV vaccine 6-12 months apart. Getting vaccinated on time protects preteens long before ever being exposed to the virus. People get HPV from another person during intimate sexual contact. Some children may need three doses of HPV vaccine. For example, adolescents who receive their two shots less than 5 months apart will need a third dose for best protection. Also, children who start the vaccine series on or after their 15th birthday need three shots given over 6 months. If your teen hasn’t gotten the vaccine yet, talk to their doctor about getting it as soon as possible. The best way to remember to get your child all the recommended doses is to make an appointment for the remaining shots before leaving the doctor’s office or clinic.
Source: gcapp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/HPV-Vaccine-for-Preteens-and-Teens.pdf
Is the HPV vaccine safe for my children?
HPV vaccination provides safe, effective, and long-lasting protection against cancers caused by HPV. HPV vaccine has a reassuring safety record backed by one year of monitoring and research. Like any vaccine or medicine, HPV vaccination can cause mild side effects and include pain, redness, or swelling in the arm where the shot was given; dizziness, fainting, nausea, and headache. Fainting after any vaccine, including the HPV vaccine, is more common among adolescents. To prevent fainting and injuries related to fainting, adolescents should be seated or lying down. It is important to tell the doctor or nurse if your child has any severe allergies, including an allergy to latex or yeast. The HPV vaccine is not recommended for anyone pregnant.
Can HPV Cause Cancer?
Yes, HPV can lead to several types of cancer, including cervical, penile, vaginal, and throat cancer. It’s important to know that cancer can take years to develop after contracting HPV.
How Can You Prevent HPV?
The best way to prevent HPV is through vaccination. The HPV vaccine is safe, effective, and can protect against diseases caused by HPV. Additionally, women in their early 20s should get screened for cervical cancer, as routine screening helps prevent this disease.
How Do You Know If You Have HPV? Is There Treatment?
Unfortunately, there are no tests to determine a person’s “HPV status." While there are HPV tests that can screen for cervical cancer, these are only recommended for women aged 30 and older. There are no recommended HPV tests for men, adolescents, or women under 30.
There is no treatment for the HPV virus itself, but there are treatments for the health problems it can cause, such as genital warts and pre-cervical cancer conditions.
Where Can You Get More Information?
For more information, visit the GCAPP or the CDC website or discuss it with your primary care provider.
In Macon, Savannah, and Augusta, local health departments and clinics are ready to provide you with the HPV vaccine and answer any questions.
Stay Informed, Stay Protected!
Educating yourself and your peers about HPV and its prevention is a powerful step towards maintaining good sexual health. Spread the word and protect yourself and others.
