Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

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What is HPV?

Human papillomavirus is considered to be the most commonly sexually transmitted infection. There are more than 40 types of the virus that can affect the genitals, throats and mouths of men and women. It has also been linked to the formation of various types of cancers, such as cervical, penile, anal and throat.

Where is HPV found?

HPV is found all over the world. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 20 million Americans are currently infected with the virus and that at least 50 percent of sexually active females and males get it at some point in their lives.

What are the symptoms of HPV?

Some people will never show symptoms of HPV and are unaware they are infected.

For those who do have symptoms of HPV, they include:

• Genital warts
• Cervical and other HPV related cancers (penile, anal, vulva, etc.), which can take years to develop after being exposed to HPV

How is HPV spread?

HPV is passed through sexual contact with an infected person, either through vaginal or anal intercourse, or oral sex

How can I keep from getting HPV?

• If sexually active, condoms should be used during all sexual acts to help prevent the spread of HPV. However, condoms may not provide full protection
• Abstinence
• Vaccinations are available for females aged 11 to 26 and males 9 through 26 years of age. These vaccines are available for this age group for only $4 through the Health Department. Contact your county health center for more information on these vaccines.

What treatments are available for HPV? How serious is the disease?

There is no specific treatment for HPV itself, but there are for its symptoms.

Visible genital warts can be treated with medication from a physician.

HPV vaccinations are available for females aged 11 to 26 and males 9 through 26 years of age. These vaccines are available for this age group for $4 through the Health Department. Contact your county health center for more information on these vaccines.

Cervical cancer, and other HPV-related cancers, is most treatable when it is diagnosed and treated early. It is recommended that women receive regular Pap tests and follow-up as needed so that a physician can identify problems before cancer develops.

HPV can be serious if it develops into cancer; however, in 90 percent of reported cases, the person’s immune system naturally clears HPV within two years of infection.

Where can I get more information on HPV?

For more information online, you can visit the Centers for Disease Control at http://www.cdc.gov/std/HPV/STDFact-HPV.htm

PAP tests and HPV vaccination are both available by appointment at the Health Department’s county health centers. 

Or, for more information, please call the Health Department at 859.363.2070.