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Hpv Vaccine Hesitancy, Ellen Fountain

Health, Human Performance and Recreation Undergraduate Honors Theses

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a virus spread through close contact, often sexual contact. Those infected will be at high risk of developing HPV-related cancers later in life. In 2006, the HPV vaccine was approved for use in the United States, but many were, and continue to be, hesitant to vaccinate their children. While other factors come into play, many times there are misconceptions contributing to hesitancy and ultimate refusal of the vaccine. The goal of this analysis is to review these factors and misconceptions and explore education-based interventions designed to minimize HPV vaccine hesitancy.