TOLEDO – Tama County Public Health and Home Care and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (Iowa HHS) are encouraging parents to have conversations with their healthcare providers about the human papillomavirus (HPV) and how to help protect their children against HPV-related cancers.

HPV is a common virus that spreads through skin-to-skin contact. While many people who get HPV may never show symptoms or experience health issues, some types of the virus can cause health conditions, such as genital warts and cancers of the cervix, throat, anus, vagina, vulva and penis. These issues can take years to develop, which is why some people choose to talk to their child’s healthcare provider before their child is exposed to the HPV virus.

“The HPV vaccine can help prevent several types of cancer,” Interim CEO/Executive Director Lori Johnson said. “The best way to decide what’s best for your child is to talk with their healthcare provider. They understand your child’s health history and can offer a recommendation that’s right for you.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the HPV vaccine for individuals aged 9 through 26. The number of doses varies depending on the age at which vaccination begins – boys and girls who start between the ages of 9 and 14 typically receive two doses, while those who begin later may need three.

Iowa HHS reports that the percentage of Iowa teens aged 13 to 15 who completed the full HPV vaccine series in 2024 was more than double the rate 10 years ago. At the same time, Iowa continues to see higher rates of certain cancers in the mouth and throat compared to other states. Nationally, researchers have associated HPV infections with many cases of cervical cancer.

“We encourage Iowans to talk with a trusted healthcare provider — whether it’s a doctor, nurse or pharmacist,” Johnson said. “Learning the facts about HPV can help you, as a parent, take action to prevent HPV-related cancers in your children.”

For more information about HPV, visit the Iowa HHS website or talk to your healthcare provider about the HPV vaccine.

About Tama County Public Health

Tama County Public Health and Home Care is your local county government-owned public health office, serving all of Tama County since 1967 and providing home health and public health services to all residents of Tama County. Our mission is to promote healthy lifestyles, prevent diseases, protect the environment, and assist people in safely residing in their homes for as long as possible. Our vision is “Healthy and safe Tama County communities.” Our purpose is to provide intermittent health care in the home and to develop and implement clinics and community programs that foster improvement in health, maintenance of health, and the prevention of disease and disability.

If you are needing to schedule an appointment or have questions about vaccinations, please feel free to contact our office at 641-484-4788. For more information, follow us on Facebook, visit our website: https://www.tamacounty.iowa.gov/public_health, or call our office at 641-484-4788.