Local Health Officials Concerned that Preteens are Not Protected Against Certain Cancers

 For Immediate Release
Date January 11, 2018

According to 2016 data from the Wisconsin Immunization Registry, only 26% of Sauk County 13-18-year-olds are vaccinated against the human papillomavirus (HPV). By remaining unvaccinated, they may be vulnerable to cancers caused by HPV infections.

Persistent HPV infections can cause cancers of the oropharynx (back of the throat, base of the tongue, and tonsils) and anus in men and women; cancers of the cervix, vagina, and vulva in women; and cancers of the penis in men. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the vaccine for girls and boys at age 11 to 12 years for best protection against cancer.

“Parents and caregivers are encouraged to talk to their child’s doctor or nurse at their next health care visit. If a preteen has not received all doses of the HPV vaccine, make an appointment to get him or her vaccinated,” Cindy Bodendein, Sauk County Health Officer.

Parents and caregivers can find out which shots their children need and at what age on the Wisconsin Immunization Program webpage. To access this information visit, https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/immunization/wir.htm. If you need assistance accessing these records call the Sauk County Health Department at (608) 355-3290.

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