Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted viral infection that can lead to many types of cancers. In 2006, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the use of the first HPV vaccine – a two-dose series. Fifteen years after its approval, there is now a decrease in HPV vaccine completion rates – especially during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
In Kansas the HPV vaccine completion rate is 30.8%, just slightly above the national average of 29%. It is important to continue routine vaccinations for both children and adults, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
