ATLANTA (AP) - A government panel is recommending that young
boys also get the controversial HPV shot. That's the vaccine now
given to girls to prevent cervical cancer.
Doctors argue that it could protect boys against genital warts
and some kinds of cancers. But they also say vaccinating 11- and
12-year old boys could also help prevent the spread of the sexually
transmitted virus to girls.
The HPV vaccine has been controversial since it was recommended for girls five years ago. And only about a third of adolescent girls have been fully vaccinated against the virus.
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices made the
recommendation Tuesday. Federal health officials usually adopt what
the panel says and asks doctors and patients to follow the
recommendations.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)