Washington State University's Health and Wellness Services is now offering Merck & Co.'s Gardasil vaccine to protect students from the four strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) that CDC says cause about 70 percent of cervical cancer cancers and nearly 90 percent of genital warts. Health and Wellness recorded 80 HPV infections in WSU students from Aug. 1, 2005, to May 31, 2006, said Mary Steed, HWS's nurse coordinator. Marsha Turnbull, HWS's health education administrator, recommended the vaccine for students who have not already been HPV-exposed. "Those who are vaccinated should continue to get annual exams, as the vaccine does not protect against all strains of HPV," said Turnbull. At the moment, no appointment is necessary for the vaccine, consisting of three $160 shots administered within a six-month period, though a waiting list will be created if demand is high, said Turnbull. She advises students to check whether their insurance policies would cover the vaccine.

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