Local Health Officials Concerned that Preteens are Not Protected Against Certain Cancers

Members of the Manitowoc County Health Department are voicing their concern that the County’s young people are not properly vaccinated against certain forms of cancer. A 2017 study shows that only 47 percent of Manitowoc County 13-18-year-olds are vaccinated against the human papillomavirus, leaving them potentially vulnerable to cancers caused by HPV infections. Mary Halada, Health Officer at the Manitowoc County Health Department says that “By vaccinating preteens against HPV today, we are reducing the chances that they become the cancer patients of tomorrow.” Parents and caregivers can find out which vaccinations their child needs and at what age on the Wisconsin Immunization Program webpage.  For more information about HPV and the vaccine, call the Manitowoc County Health Department at 920-683-4155 or visit their website at www.co.manitowoc.wi.us.