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Local health officials support cervical cancer shots for girls

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A bill requiring middle-school age girls to receive Gardasil, the vaccine that prevents cervical cancer and genital warts caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), continues to move in the Kentucky House of Representatives.
On Wednesday, House Bill 345 was introduced in the House. By Thursday the bill was moved to the Houses Health and Welfare Committee for debate. Friday afternoon the bill was posted in committee.
HB 345 replaces a similar bill introduced by Rep. Kathy Stein, D-Lexington.
The new bill would allow exceptions to immunization against HPV for children whose parents choose to withhold consent as well as establish that parents do not have to submit a written statement as required for other immunization exceptions.
Additionally, the bill amends requirements to immunize against HPV for all middle school female students as well as require certification of HPV immunization for school enrollment, instead of getting a written sworn statement; parents would simply fill out a form.
Many herald the vaccine as a life saving, especially in Kentucky, which has the second highest rate of cervical cancer deaths in the nation, while others are opposed to the vaccine, saying it will promote sexual promiscuity.
Despite backlash surrounding the vaccine, local health-care professionals say it is growing in popularity.
Dr. Amal Shalash, a pediatrician with Pediatric Associates of Frankfort said the vaccine has been available at that medical office since October.
Shalash said she doesnt think the current debate surrounding the vaccine will have an effect on the number of patients who receive the injections.
"People have requested it," Shalash said.
She said she is in favor of administering the vaccine, which is covered by most insurance companies.
"The fact that it can help prevent cervical cancer, its very well tolerated and has few side effects (make it worthwhile)," Shalash said.
She also said she is suggesting parents have their daughters immunized.
"Anytime I see them for physicals I do recommend it," she said.
Shalash said the vaccine is administered in three separate injections over the course of six months.
Rosie Miklavcic, Franklin County Health Department Public Health Director, said the health department isnt offering the vaccine yet, but plans are in the works to make the vaccine available at the health department.
"As soon as we get a directive from the Department for Public Health we would be able to administer the vaccine," Miklavcic said. "We know its coming in the future."
Miklavcic said the health department receives questions from patrons about the vaccine. She said many are unaware of its benefits and purpose.
"We have had patients and parents ask about it," she said. "Once people understand how it can prevent cervical cancer they are excited about it."
The vaccine is expensive, costing approximately $500 for a series of three immunizations.
According to Miklavcic, the Vaccines for Children program should cover costs for Gardasil at the health department for children under age 18. For those over 18, she said, medical cards and insurance should fund the injections.
She said she thinks the vaccine is a valuable resource and the department plans to launch a media campaign with public education once its available at the health department.
"Were excited about the vaccine because of the prevalence, incidents and mortality of women in Kentucky because of cervical cancer," Miklavcic said.
On Tuesday Gov. Ernie Fletcher addressed the vaccine in his State of the Commonwealth speech.
"I am moving forward with funding this vaccine for our Medicaid patients out of the existing budget," Fletcher said in the speech.
He also asked for $4.1 million to make the vaccine available for low-income or individuals without insurance.
Fletcher recommended educating parents and giving them the option for their children to receive the vaccine.
Kentucky is one of 20 states with legislation on the vaccine; Texas Gov. Rick Perry recently issued an order calling for all girls to be vaccinated.
Reps. Stein, Tom Burch, D-Louisville, David Watkins, D-Henderson and Mary Lou Marzian, D-Louisville and Carl Rollins, D-Woodford, sponsor HB 345.