News About Gardasil
University Health Service is now offering the Gardasil vaccine, which is used to protect against four strains of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that causes genital warts, abnormal Pap tests, and cervical cancer.
The vaccine has been approved for girls and women between the ages of 9 – 26 who are not yet sexually active.
There are three shots required to protect against four strains of the virus. You must complete the series in order to be protected, and it takes six months to complete the vaccine series. Once you receive the first vaccine, you can receive the second dose a month later. The third dose may be administered six months after the first dose.
How Much Does it Cost?
The cost of the vaccine is $130 per dose, or $390 for the series of three vaccines, payable at the time you receive the vaccine. You may pay for each dose individually. Like most vaccines, unfortunately, Gardasil is not covered under the Case Medical Plan. If you have other insurance, please contact your insurance provider to determine whether the vaccines are covered.
If you are already sexually active and want the vaccine, Gardasil still may be appropriate for you. Please talk to your health care provider first. Men who want the vaccine (especially men who have sex with men) should make an appointment in the General Clinic where they can discuss the vaccine with their care provider.
What is HPV?
The Human Papilloma Virus is the virus which causes genital warts. Men and women can get HPV from vaginal, oral, or anal sexual contact. Some strains of the virus (there are more than 100) can cause cancer of the cervix.
People can be infected with HPV and not have symptoms. The virus can be transmitted when no symptoms are present.