Stark County Health Department Immunization updates.

During 2007 the Stark County Health Department (SCHD) began providing some additional vaccinations. The most recent additions to the vaccination program are Gardasil, and Zostavax.

Gardasil is the vaccine available for the prevention of Human Papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States (U.S.), and is believed to be responsible for 90% of anal cancers, 40% of vulvar, vaginal, or penile cancers, and 12% of oral and pharyngeal cancers, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In 2006 it was estimated that 20 million individuals were infected with HPV across the U.S., with an additional 6.2 million new infections annually. The vaccine was licensed in 2006 for use among females 9-26 years of age. The ideal age for vaccination in the U.S. is 11-12 years of age. In late 2006 this vaccine became available from the Vaccines for Children Program (VFC) for those children who are VFC eligible, leaving a large percentage of the 9-26 year old population unvaccinated.

Zostavax is the current vaccine available for the prevention of Herpes Zoster (shingles). Shingles occurs when latent varicella zoster virus (chickenpox) reactivates and causes recurrent disease. The reactivation of this virus is associated with aging, immunosuppression, intrauterine exposure, and in those experiencing chickenpox younger than 18 months of age. The CDC estimates that 500,000 to 1 million episodes of shingles occur yearly in the U.S. This vaccination was approved in 2006 for use in individuals 60 years of age and older. According to the U.S. Census Bureau and the CDC, in 2000 there were 35 million adults 65 years of age and older and they expect this number to increase to nearly 70 million by the year 2030. With the rapid increase in the aging population, the demand for this vaccination is expected to increase over the next several years.

SCHD began purchasing the vaccinations above in early 2007 and is currently offering them to any individuals who meet the criteria set by the CDC and Ohio Department of Health. For information about fees and appointment scheduling please contact the Nursing Division at (330) 493-9928, ext 241, or 100.

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