Mandatory HPV Vaccine
Should the HPV vaccine be mandatory for schoolgirls?
The news: Texas Governor Rick Perry issued an executive order requiring that girls entering sixth grade in public schools must receive the vaccine for the sexually transmitted disease human papillomavirus (HPV).
At least 11 other states are considering a similar law, including Illinois, Kentucky and South Carolina. The vaccine, sold by Merck under the name Gardasil, has been shown to protect against 4 of the 12 HPV strains that are linked to cervical cancer.
The debate: Conservative groups argue that the vaccine could encourage promiscuity. Medical advocates are concerned with possible long-term effects of the vaccine. Proponents cheer that the shot could eliminate expensive and uncomfortable medical procedures.
The bottom line: The HPV vaccine seems like a good idea, but possible long-term side effects are troubling. The vaccine is available, so if early adopters feel that it is safe, they are free to use it, but I think it is a bit premature to put HPV vaccine on a mandatory vaccination schedule.
What do you think? [source: First]
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