Human Papillomavirus

Our team of experts is here to answer all of your questions on human Papillomavirus (HPV) and the HPV vaccine.

In partnership with the American Cancer Society, our team of HPV experts has compiled valuable information and resources to help you make informed decisions about your health or the health of your child.

If you have additional questions about the HPV virus or the HPV vaccine, or if you would like to schedule a vaccination appointment, please contact your primary care provider. If you need help finding a provider, please call (402) 354-CARE.

What Is HPV?

Human Papillomavirus – or HPV – is a very common virus that can be spread through direct contact with infected skin or mucous membranes during sexual activity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 85% of people will develop an HPV infection at some point in life.

For more information on HPV, please review our fact sheet.

HPV Vaccine

The HPV vaccine is proven to be safe and effective while providing long-lasting protection from HPV infections. Some strains of HPV can lead to HPV-related cancers, like cervical, vaginal, penile or throat. According to the CDC, since the vaccine was first introduced in 2006, HPV infections in young women have dropped by approximately 80%, and instances of precancers – or abnormal cells on the cervix that can lead to cancer – have dropped 40%.

The vaccine is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and recommended by the CDC for individuals 9-26 years old. More than 135 million doses have been administered to date with little to no side effects.

Summer 2021

The Vaccine That Prevents Cancer

The administration of the cancer-preventing human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine trails other routine adolescent vaccinations by nearly 40%. Methodist is aiming to close that gap locally through a systemwide partnership with the American Cancer Society.

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If you could get a vaccine that stopped lung cancer, everyone would – even though most of us aren’t smoking or at high risk. This is the same approach. We know the HPV vaccine is safe. We know it’s already being effective. We know that it’s going to keep working.