By SYDNEY MORMAN
The doctor injected the slender needle into the girl’s shoulder for the third time. It was the final dose of Gardasil, a vaccine that helps prevent females from contracting the human papillomavirus quadrivalent for types 6, 11, 16 and 18.
“If the Gardasil can save one from cervical cancer then it is a necessary vaccine,” Dr. Virginia Mesa said.
These types of viruses consist of genital warts, oral papillomis and other genital cancers. Research shows that Gardasil protects against four types of HPV, two types of which cause 70 percent of all cervical cancer cases. According to Gardisal’s Web site, women who are already sexually active may not benefit from the shot because they could have already been exposed to the virus. Even with all of the good news surrounding the Gardasil vaccine, there are possible negative side effects. Symptoms include: dizziness, fatigue, headache, nausea, fever, vomiting or pain, swelling, itching, bruising and redness at the injection site. There have also been cases of fainting, stiffness and shaking reported.
“I recommend the vaccine because it can help prevent cervical cancer and perhaps death. I also recommend it because the vaccine has been well studied. In addition it’s relatively safe,” Dr. Mesa said.
A majority of females on campus are too young to decide for themselves whether or not Gardasil is right for them. Students are encouraged to talk to their parent and doctor.
For more information or questions, one can refer to www.gardasil.com. The Web site answers questions that can help one decide if the shot is right for them, along with a list of the side effects and safety information. The estimated cost of Gardasil is between $300-$500, although some insurance companies will pay for it in full.
“I recommend the shot; it helps throughout life and you don’t have to get it again. I know that I don’t have a chance of getting that cancer and it makes me feel healthier for getting the shot,” freshman Angela Krauss Coryell said.