Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine
Frequently Asked Questions

There are two HPV vaccines available at PUSH: Cervarix and Gardasil.

Gardasil/Merck Reimbursement Offer

Need help paying for the Gardasil vaccine? Click here to learn more about the Merck reimbursement offer.

How are the two HPV vaccines similar?

• Both vaccines are very effective against HPV types 16 and 18; HPV 16 and 18 cause various types of cancer, including cervical cancer.
• Both vaccines are very safe.
• Both vaccines are given as injections and require 3 doses over a 6-month period.
• Being vaccinated with either Cervarix or Gardasil prior to first sexual contact is recommended, but can still be helpful even if sexual contact has already occurred.
• Women who receive either vaccine should still seek routine cervical cancer screenings (Pap smears).

How are the two HPV vaccines different?

• Only Gardasil also protects against HPV types 6 and 11 that cause most genital warts in females and males.
• Only Gardasil has been tested and licensed for use in males.
• Only Gardasil has been tested and shown to protect against precancers of the vulva, vagina, and anus.

Who can receive the HPV vaccine?

• Gardasil: Recommended for males and females ages 9-26.
• Cervarix: Recommended for females ages 9-26.

Can I receive the HPV vaccine at PUSH?

• Students and eligible dependents can make an appointment at PUSH to receive the HPV vaccine (Cervarix and Gardasil).
• Students and eligible dependents can receive any HPV vaccine injections in the series at PUSH, even if the vaccine series was started at another location/office.
• Documentation may be requested to assure that injections are administered in the appropriate sequence and/or timing.

For more information:

• http://www.gardasil.com
• http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/hpv/vac-faqs.htm