The vaccine for the sexually transmitted virus is already given to girls to prevent cervical cancer. The panel now says the vaccine protects boys against genital warts and some kinds of cancers.
Some parents tell Action News the advisory may encourage promiscuity. Dr. Richard Besser, is the Chief Health and Medical Editor for ABC News. Dr. Besser says, "It's controversial because it's a sexually transmitted virus and whenever you say the word "sex," people cringe and don't want to go there."
The HPV vaccine was recommended for girls five years ago. On Tuesday the CDC extended the recommendation to all young children.
Dr. Besser says the vaccine is safe. Side effects include some soreness in the area of the injection and maybe a slight fever.
