Gardasil Vaccine Should Not Be a Mandatory Vaccine for Girls Entering Puberty - Essay Example

Gardasil is a controversial vaccine that was invented by Merck, Inc. pharmaceutical. It has been introduced to prevent four types of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). HPV is associated with cervical cancer and genital warts. It is recommended to be administered to girls as early as 9-years-old, while in some states, it is mandatory as part of the childhood immunity schedule. The FDA has approved the use of this vaccine irrespective of the several serious controversies surrounding it. One reason why the vaccine should not be mandatorily administered is the side effects that have been reported from different countries across the globe.

Although most of the adverse effects from this vaccine have not been documented, several side effects have been observed. Some effects have even lead to death. Other side effects that have been observed include blindness, heart, and respiratory problems, different forms of paralysis, headaches, pain in joints and muscles and allergies. Additionally, abnormal PAP Smear test results have been observed in girls who have been injected with the Gardasil vaccine.It is unethical to obligate public use of a vaccine that has not been fully tested for toxic effects.

Additionally, the vaccination of girls might lead to increased misuse of sex. Since the girls are somehow assured of protection from some sexually transmitted diseases, they might consider it safe to indulge in premarital sex carelessly and at a tender age.