Be One Less:

Get the HPV Vaccine at NO Cost to Protect yourself against Genital Warts and Cervical Cancer.

There is an opportunity for females of the Missouri State community, between the ages of 9-26, to receive the HPV vaccine at no cost.

The HPV vaccine protects against four major types of HPV. The human papillomavirus, or HPV, is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the U.S. and has been known to cause abnormal Pap test results, in addition to 70 percent of cervical cancer cases and 90 percent of genital warts. The vaccine is given as a three-dose series; with the second dose preferably given two months after dose one and the third dose given six months after dose one.

The vaccine is safe and effective for females 9-26 years old, regardless of their sexual history. It is most effective if given before the onset of sexual activity since those who have not been infected with HPV would receive the full benefit of the vaccination. However, females who are sexually active may also benefit from the vaccine since those who have already been infected with one or more HPV types would still get protection from the vaccine types they have not acquired. Few young women are infected with all four HPV types in the vaccine.

Individuals are eligible to receive the HPV vaccine at no cost if their insurance will not pay or cover 100% of the cost of the HPV vaccine. Females who qualify will be able to get the HPV vaccine at no cost at Taylor Health and Wellness Center during regular office hours (Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 am to 4:30 pm). If you have already started the HPV vaccine series, please bring documentation of your previous HPV vaccination.

This opportunity is made possible through a grant, which could be a savings of up to $900 for the HPV vaccine three-dose series.

If you have any questions about this opportunity or the vaccine, feel free to call Taylor Health and Wellness Center’s Treatment Clinic at (417) 836-4020 or visit
http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/hpv/default.htm.

The HPV vaccine opportunity is sponsored by Taylor Health and Wellness Center and OACAC.

Jerilyn Reed
Student Wellness Coordinator
Taylor Health and Wellness Center
Missouri State University
JerilynReed@MissouriState.edu
(417) 836-4045