Controversy: Should children be required to receive the HPV vaccine?
What is HPV? What is the connection between HPV and cervical cancer? Why vaccinate? What is the history of state legislation for and HPV vaccine requirement? What are the outcomes on cancer rates and side effects?
Counter Argument: No, vaccinating girls, and possibly boys, against a sexually transmitted disease at age 11 should not be required. The vaccine “sexualizes” children at too early an age and will promote promiscuity and unhealthy sexual behavior. The science on the effectiveness of this vaccine is too new, and has not proven to be effective long term.
My position: The HPV vaccine should be included in the list of required immunizations for children. HPV causes cervical cancer and vaccinating children before they become sexually active is key to reducing rates.
SOURCES:
Harris, Gardiner. “Panel Endorses HPV Vaccine for Boys of 11.” 25 October 25, 2011. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/26/health/policy/26vaccine.html.
Knox, Richard. “HPV Vaccine: The Science Behind The Controversy.” National Public Radio.
Norton, Amy. “Girl’s HPV Vaccination Rates Falling Short.” Reuters.
“Vaccines and Preventable Diseases: HPV Vaccination.” Centers for Disese Control and Prevention. http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/hpv/>.
Your list of questions identifies a lot of research inquiries that you'll have to follow up on and answer (with credible evidence) to create a convincing argument. Meanwhile, if you summarize and rebut all the counterarguments you've included here, I think you'll have a very convincing essay.
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