HPV Vaccine
HPV Vaccine Policy
The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) has issued its policy regarding use of vaccine for human papillomavirus (HPV). It reflects recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Because HPV vaccination is provided in multiple settings, involving many programs and payers, it was determined a common statement would be beneficial,” says Family and Community Health Bureau Chief Jo Ann Walsh Dotson, RN, MSN. Public health professionals in many bureaus and programs within DPHHS provided input.
A vaccine to prevent infection by four types of HPV (of approximately 100 types of HPV) has been approved by the FDA and is recommended by the national Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). DPHHS concurs with the ACIP’s recommended use of this vaccine:
- Routine vaccination of females aged 11-12 years. The vaccination series can be started as young as age 9 years.
- Catch-up vaccination of females aged 13-26 years
This vaccine is available through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program for those 9-18 years of age and covered by Medicaid for those 19-26 years of age.
Complete details of this recommendation can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/rr5602a1.htm?s_cid=rr5602a1_e
CDC has also posted questions and answers for the public about HPV Vaccine Safety and Effectiveness at
http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/hpv/hpv-vacsafe-effic.htm
Additional information can be found on these CDC websites:
HPV Vaccine: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/hpv/default.htm
HPV Infection: http://www.cdc.gov/std/hpv/default.htm
For further information, contact the HIV/STD Section at 1-406-444-3565.
Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS)
12-21-07
