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For years, the Gardisil and Cervarix vaccines were referred to “one of the girl shots.” However,  doctors have recently recommended that boys receive the vaccine as well.

“My parents made me get it,” said Kelly Shrader. “Guys should get it ’cause I heard they were the ones that pass it on.”

The HPV vaccine protects the body against cervical cancer, genital warts, and other lesser known cancers. It is a three-dose injection.

The age range is now for girls and boys above thirteen years old and up to early twenties. Two months after the first dose the second dose is taken, then four months after the second dose the last injection is received.

Regardless whether it’s made for either gender, parents have always had doubt in getting the vaccination.

Serious injuries and even death from the vaccine have been reported in headlines in the past, but such severe reactions are considered extremely rare.

Minor side-effects that are common include: fainting, dizziness, pain in injection area, and fatigue.

“It was more painful than other shots,” stated Cathy Lau.

When I received my first dose of the vaccine, I had severe pain and passed out. This was a big deal to me since I have a high pain tolerance. The second vaccine was not nearly as bad as my reaction to the first dosage.

“They’re giving it to guys cause they can be a silent carrier, they might not even know it, added Carlmont History and AVID teacher Kristin Davis.

HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases in the United States. A lot of the  time, people infected may not even be aware that they have it. It’s been made known that boys should be protected as well.

An anonymous male recipient of the vaccine stated, “It was hella awkward getting the shot cause I don’t know any other guys that have got it; but everyone should get it.” (sic)

Ultimately, the decision to get the HPV vaccine is up to the parents and doctor.