A prominent expert in Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is reporting a new, improved vaccine for the cancer-causing virus should be available by the end of the year.
Dr. Kevin Ault, obstetrician-gynecologist at The University of Kansas Hospital, is a member of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the Centers for Disease Control.
Dr. Ault said the new vaccine will provide protection against seven of the 12 HPVs known to cause head and neck cancers, as well as gynecological cancers. The current vaccine protects against only four viruses.
The new vaccine will shield recipients from 73 percent of the HPV cancers.
Dr. Ault said the science clearly links HPV to the fast growing number of head and neck cancers, as well as cervical and anal cancer.
He said the shot is covered by insurance and is effective if given to patients in adolescence up to the age of 26 for both men and women.
To see a KU Hospital video about this topic, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YqrrcL7ap1s.
– Story from KU Hospital