Texas is the first state requiring mandatory immunization of schoolgirls against HPV, a major cause of cervical cancer.
Texas Governor Rick Perry has signed an order making Texas the first state for mandatory HPV immunization of schoolgirls. Beginning in September 2008, the order requires that girls entering the sixth grade (ages 11 and 12) receive Gardasil vaccine that provides protection against the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus (HPV). The order is aimed at reducing cervical cancer in women, of which more than 90% of cases are attributable to HPV infection.
It will be interesting to see whether additional States implement similar orders, or whether human rights groups will shut down the mandatory immunization proposed for Texas.
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