Santa Fe Standard

About 85% of people across the United States will contract a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection during their lifetime, often without being aware of it. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection, with high-risk strains capable of causing illnesses and various types of cancer.

The New Mexico Department of Health’s Immunization Program highlights that vaccinating children aged 11 to 12 can protect them long before exposure. Timely HPV vaccination can prevent over 90% of HPV-related cancers.

“You can get HPV from skin-to-skin sexual contact. What makes it unique among sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) is most HPV infections have no symptoms,” said NMDOH STD Program Manager Janine Waters. “The immune system usually gets rid of the virus within two years, but when it doesn’t, the virus can cause healthy cells to change over time. Those cells, left untreated, can eventually lead to cancer.”

Routine vaccination typically starts at ages 11-12 for maximum effectiveness before exposure to HPV. Vaccination is also advised up to age 26 for those not fully vaccinated earlier.

HPV-related cancers take many years to develop and may be challenging to treat.

For more information on HPV, its risks, vaccination benefits, and protective measures for you and your partner, resources are available through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

If assistance is needed in locating a nearby vaccination site or for inquiries about HPV, individuals are encouraged to call the DOH Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773).

For further details regarding this press release, David Barre can be contacted at (505) 699-9237 (Office).

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