The Importance of Getting Your HPV Vaccine:
Guarding Against a Silent Threat

The Gardasil 9 Vaccine at Bergen New Bridge

One vaccine is a powerful defense against the common and potentially life-altering human papillomavirus (HPV)—Gardasil 9. If you’re considering the Gardasil 9 vaccine or have questions about it, we can help.

What is Gardasil 9?

Gardasil 9 is a groundbreaking vaccine designed to protect against HPV, the most common sexually transmitted infection in the world. While most HPV infections clear up independently, certain strains can cause serious health issues, including cervical cancer, other genital cancers, and genital warts.

Gardasil 9 is specifically formulated to provide protection against nine high-risk HPV strains, offering comprehensive coverage against the most dangerous forms of the virus. These nine strains are responsible for approximately 90% of HPV-related cancers and genital warts.

Locations

You can get your Boostrix® or DAPTACEL® shot at one of our CareRite Now centers:

New Milford (for hours and directions)

Wallington (for hours and directions)

Appointments are available. Walk-ins accepted.

Why Should You Consider Gardasil 9?

1. Cancer Prevention: Gardasil 9 is a strong defense against several types of cancer. It is most well-known for preventing cervical cancer but also guards against anal, vaginal, vulvar, penile, and oropharyngeal cancers. By getting vaccinated, you significantly reduce your risk of developing these cancers.
2. Safe and Effective: Gardasil 9 has undergone extensive research, testing, and monitoring to ensure its safety and effectiveness. Clinical trials have successfully demonstrated the vaccine’s ability to protect against HPV-related diseases. The side effects are generally mild and include pain or swelling at the injection site, making it a safe choice for most individuals.
3. Equal Opportunity: Gardasil 9 is recommended for both males and females, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to protect themselves against HPV-related diseases. This promotes equality in healthcare and reduces the overall transmission of the virus.
4. Herd Immunity: By getting vaccinated with Gardasil 9, you contribute to herd immunity, which benefits your entire community. When a significant portion of the population is immune to HPV, it becomes difficult for the virus to spread, protecting those who may not be able to receive the vaccine due to medical reasons.

Understanding HPV

Human Papillomavirus, or HPV, is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide. It is so prevalent that nearly all sexually active individuals contract it at some point. While most HPV infections are harmless and resolve on their own, certain strains of the virus can lead to serious health issues, including:

1. Cervical Cancer: HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer, responsible for nearly all cases. Cervical cancer is a potentially life-threatening disease that more than 11,000 American women are diagnosed with yearly.
2. Other Cancers: HPV is also linked to other cancers, such as anal, vaginal, vulvar, penile, and oropharyngeal. These cancers can impact both men and women.
3. Genital Warts: Some strains of HPV cause genital warts, which, while not life-threatening, can be uncomfortable, distressing, and difficult to treat.

Protecting Yourself and Others

The importance of getting your HPV shot cannot be overstated. It is a simple yet powerful step to protect yourself and contribute to public health. By getting vaccinated, you reduce your risk of HPV-related diseases and help create a safer and healthier community for everyone. Talk to your healthcare provider today about the HPV vaccine and take this critical step towards safeguarding your future health. Remember, prevention in the case of HPV can be lifesaving.