CGH event on vaccine to prevent sexually transmitted diseases

BY SVN STAFF The human papillomavirus vaccine, which targets certain sexually transmitted strains of HPV associated with the development of cervical cancer and genital warts, will be the topic of a free presentation next week at CGH Medical Center. Two vaccines, Gardisil and Cervarix, are on the market and recommended for girls and women ages 9 to 25. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, by age 50, more than 80 percent of adults will be exposed to the virus, which primarily is passed on by skin-to-skin contact. Because it is a virus that lives on the skin, a condom is not effective in preventing transmission. The vaccine is nearly 100 percent effective against the four HPV strains that it covers, but it does not protect against all types of the virus or all forms of cervical cancer, nor is it effective if you already have been exposed to the virus. "More than 18 states and the District of Columbia are considering making the human papillomavirus virus vaccination mandatory for young girls entering middle school or high schools," said Meredith Johnson, a nurse practitioner who will give the presentation. "As a parent, you need to have all the facts regarding the vaccine so you can make an informed choice with your child and your physician." The free presentation is at 6 p.m. Oct. 16 in the CGH Ryberg Auditorium. A box lunch will be available for $3. To register, call (815) 625-0400, ext. 5716.