What Families Should Know about Human papillomavirus (HPV)

Back-to-School Vaccine Breakdown: Protecting Your Child’s Health with the HPV Vaccine

Written by: Laura Romano, D.O.

Resources and tips for finding immunizations for children:

Navigating vaccines can feel overwhelming. Talk to your pediatrician.

Schedule an appointment through Cook Children's.
Find your nearest Texas Department of State Health service clinic for information on clinics.
Call 211 for help.
Call Tarrant County Public Health at 817-248-6299 to make an appointment or to find a walk-in clinic.
Check with your local school district for vaccine events.

Hospitalist Laura Romano, D.O.,

Raising a child brings up endless questions, especially when it comes to their health and well-being. As back-to-school season approaches, immunizations may be top of mind for families, and searching for clear, honest answers about what goes into their child's body and why. With so much conflicting information online, sorting facts from fear can feel overwhelming. Cook Children’s Health Care System helps parents and caregivers cut through the noise with trusted guidance from medical experts who are parents themselves.

Among the recommended shots, the Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine often raises questions.

Hospitalist Laura Romano, D.O., explains the key facts about HPV and the vaccine that prevents it.

What is HPV?

HPV is a viral infection that causes flesh-colored warts on certain mucous membranes, most commonly affecting the mouth, throat and genitals.

HPV infections can lead to cervical cancer in women, as well as head-and-neck and anal cancers in both men and women

Most people with HPV have no symptoms and don't realize they carry the virus, yet they can still pass it to others.

How can the disease be prevented?

Vaccinating older children and teenagers can provide lifelong protection against HPV and helps prevent several types of cancer as well.

What would you like families to know about the virus or the vaccine?

Vaccinating boys and girls offers lifelong protection against a virus that can cause warts but also against deadly cancers. The vaccine protects your child now and helps safeguard their future partners down the road.

Last year, for the first time, the United Kingdom announced zero deaths from cervical cancer among women under age 30. Australia and New Zealand have seen similar results alongside increased vaccination rates.

Other countries have also reported declines in cervical cancer among women, as well as head and neck cancer among men.