Which preventive health measure is appropriate for both boys and girls during adolescence?

Which preventive health measure is appropriate for both boys and girls during adolescence?

• A. Delay HepB and TDaP boosters until adulthood
• B. Recommend HPV vaccine for boys and girls
• C. Skip Tdap boosters
• D. Avoid contraception counseling

Answer: (B)

Vaccinating both boys and girls against human papillomavirus during adolescence provides protection against multiple HPV-related cancers and diseases and helps reduce transmission. Starting the vaccine at about ages 11–12 yields a strong immune response and high completion rates, with catch-up vaccination available for those up to 26 (and up to 26 for certain groups). This broad, gender-inclusive protection is why the HPV vaccine is the appropriate preventive measure for adolescents of any sex. Other options miss important preventive opportunities: delaying HepB and Tdap boosters overlooks established adolescent immunization schedules that protect against hepatitis B and tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis; skipping Tdap leaves a gap in protection against pertussis in a vulnerable age group; and avoiding contraception counseling neglects effective strategies to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.

Vaccinating both boys and girls against human papillomavirus during adolescence provides protection against multiple HPV-related cancers and diseases and helps reduce transmission. Starting the vaccine at about ages 11–12 yields a strong immune response and high completion rates, with catch-up vaccination available for those up to 26 (and up to 26 for certain groups). This broad, gender-inclusive protection is why the HPV vaccine is the appropriate preventive measure for adolescents of any sex.

Other options miss important preventive opportunities: delaying HepB and Tdap boosters overlooks established adolescent immunization schedules that protect against hepatitis B and tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis; skipping Tdap leaves a gap in protection against pertussis in a vulnerable age group; and avoiding contraception counseling neglects effective strategies to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.