News

Gardasil—A New Vaccine for Human Papillomavirus Prevention

The Health & Wellness Center at Boise State University is now offering immunization against Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection with the new vaccine Gardasil.  HPV is a sexually-transmitted infection.

Gardasil was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in June of 2006 for use in females between the ages of 9 and 26, for the prevention of HPV infection, the major cause of cancer of the cervix (the lower part of the uterus-where the Pap smear is collected) and precancerous problems of the cervix.

The vaccine is safe, and there are few contraindications for its use in most women. Studies have shown that it is nearly 100% effective in preventing the subtypes of HPV infection that cause disease of the cervix. The vaccine can be administered to women who have had previous abnormal pap smears, precancerous problems of the cervix, prior HPV infection, and may be effective in preventing further HPV infection in those individuals.

The vaccine is administered in a three dose series: after the first dose, boosters at 2 and 6 months complete the series. Click on this link for frequently asked questions and for more information about the vaccine: http://www.merck.com/product/usa/pi_circulars/g/gardasil/gardasil_ppi.pdf

We recommend that women schedule a brief visit with a clinician at the Health & Wellness Center prior to receiving the vaccine.

The three-dose series costs approximately $420. This vaccine is a covered benefit under the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP). Other insurance plans may cover the vaccine as well, but we recommend that you check with your plan prior to receiving the vaccine. You are responsible for any charges not covered by your insurance.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call 426-1459.

Link to Centers for Disease Control information about Gardasil: