Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on HPV Vaccination Rates

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection that potentiates cancer in both males and females. There are over 200 different types of HPV and while some strains, specifically HPV 6 and 11, may result in genital and skin warts, others remain clinically silent. High risk strains, HPV 16 and 18, are most associated with cervical cancer in women. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was widespread hesitancy and rejection towards vaccination. Similarly, the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine has also been met with distrust since it’s release. Studies have shown that there is a low vaccination rate due to parental fears towards possible encouragement of sexual activity. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether the pandemic has affected HPV vaccination rates. If the rates have decreased, it is imperative that healthcare providers work to encourage the HPV vaccine