on the one side:

Human papilloma virus is an epidemic today. (more than 1 million new cases in US each year). Maybe more since I checked those stats last time.

BUT---
This vaccine is untried....there are no long term studies on it. And as vaccines go today...they tend to be dangerous.

I think proper education in the home is the only way to stop the spread of STDs in this country. It is the NUMBER ONE task of parents of teens, followed closely by education about drugs--recreational and RX.

Our kids spend alot of time with peers who influence them. My son had a terrible time resisting casual sex when he joined a band, in his late teens. He had to quit when drug use became apparent (it wasn't obvious at first) and the cruising for sex became more common. He ended up as designated driver
and finally got totally grossed out. He quit...and told me about it. I have to say he was strong, and I am proud. I did make him get testing in college--which was free and confidential. He passed as negative.

It is harder and harder for parents these days. And I guess there is NO substitute for parents not allowing kids to raise their kids!