Research Article

Promoting HPV Prevention in the School Setting

Published: 2013-3

Journal: NASN School Nurse

DOI: 10.1177/1942602x12463249

Abstract

In pediatrics especially, it is important to incorporate the latest immunization and Healthy People 2020 guidelines while working to promote health and prevent disease in children. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States with at least 20 million people infected. Consequently, approximately 18,000 women and 7,000 men are diagnosed with HPV associated cancers yearly. Gardasil is a quadrivalent vaccine that protects against HPV strains 6, 11, 16, and 18. It is currently recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices for both males and females between 11 and 26 years of age. HPV immunization rates are lower than the intended 80% goal of Healthy People 2020, with only 26.7% of the population having completed the vaccination series. Focused, timely, and persistent education and prevention efforts are needed in school settings to increase vaccination rates and decrease HPV morbidity.

Faculty Members

  • Aaron M. Sebach - Board Certified Nurse Practitioner, Peninsula Regional Medical Center, Salisbury, MD
  • Tania Bellia-Weiss - Certified Emergency Nurse, Peninsula Regional Medical Center, Salisbury, MD
  • Laurie A. Rockelli - Assistant Professor, Salisbury University, Salisbury, MD
  • Mary Parsons - Director, Graduate and Second Degree Nursing Programs, Salisbury University, Salisbury, MD

Themes

  • Immunization guidelines in pediatrics
  • Health promotion in children
  • Challenges in achieving vaccination rates
  • Role of vaccines in public health
  • Prevention of HPV and associated cancers

Categories

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