In a follow up to yesterday’s post, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) voted against the routine use of the Gardasil vaccine in boys and men. The Gardasil vaccine offers protection against the most common strains of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) that cause cervical cancer and genital warts.
The ACIP actually gave Gardasil a “permissive recommendation.” That means that physicians can offer the vaccine to boys/men if they feel it is indicated, but they are not required to.
This issue will most likely continue to evolve over the next few years. Student Health Services will monitor the situation and keep you posted on any important updates.
John A. Vaughn, MD (Ohio State Student Health Services)