D.C. and VA Schools Requesting Sixth Grade Girls Receive HPV Vaccination

Schools in both D.C. and Virginia are requesting sixth grade girls receive Gardasil, the vaccine that was approved by the FDA in 2006 that protects against genital warts and cervical cancer. The vaccine is most effective if it is administered before girls become sexually active. Though both D.C. and Virginia have provided for opting-out of the requirement, proponents are hopeful that this legislation will protect million girls from cervical cancer. However, opponents voice concerns that the drug has not been tested enough. Such apprehension is what has prevented other states, such as Maryland, from making the vaccination mandatory.