FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Dec. 4, 2012

Although the quadrivalent HPV vaccine was approved for use in the US in 2006, the latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data shows only 57% of females and 35% of males received at least 1 dose, with far less finishing the three dose series.  In fact, the HPV vaccine has the lowest completion rates of any vaccine in the United States, including vaccines that are recommended for the same age groups. In 2013, the Director of the CDC said achieving higher HPV vaccination rates was a top public health priority. Still, achieving higher rates has been a struggle.

Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval has proclaimed April 18 – 25 Nevada Infant Immunization Week, to coincide with the annual national observance of National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW).

The state and national observance of NIIW highlights the importance of protecting infants from vaccine-preventable diseases and celebrates the achievements of immunization programs in promoting healthy communities throughout the United States.

When we hear about HPV – the more common term for the human papillomavirus, the conversation usually focuses on young women and the risk of cervical cancer. In reality, HPV is a much larger health issue for women and men. Some even go so far as to say it is a crisis.

When we hear about HPV, the conversation often focuses on young women and the risk of cervical cancer. In reality, HPV is a much larger health crisis for women and men linked to many other diseases that we struggle to talk openly about, like vaginal and penile cancers.

Without a doubt, most parents make decisions they believe are in the best interest of their children. Sometimes they listen to friends, family, doctors and teachers. Sometimes they do their research. Sometimes they don't.

And sometimes, life just throws curve balls, even if we've done all of the above.

In order to ensure everyone who needs the vaccine has the opportunity to receive it, Carson City Health and Human Services’ Long Street Clinic is going to offer extended hours each Thursday in February.

Immunize Nevada, in partnership with the Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health and Nevada Cancer Coalition, has launched HPV Free NV, a statewide campaign to raise awareness and uptake of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine known to prevent cancer.

The 17th Annual Silver Syringe Awards are a statewide tradition for Nevada’s immunization and healthcare stakeholders. This annual event allows for an opportunity to honor those immunization champions that provide excellent service, but may not otherwise be recognized. This year’s event is being held in conjunction with National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW) and will have event locations in Reno and Las Vegas.

When I was recently asked to give a TEDx talk about preventing cancer through HPV vaccination, I didn’t want my HPV story to be part of it. I didn’t want it broadcast to the world. I definitely didn’t want to talk about sex.