The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is reducinginfections of certain strains of HPV even among girls and young women who arenot vaccinated, according to a study published in the journal Pediatrics andreported by HealthDay News.

HPV is a virus known to cause genital warts and cervicalcancer and is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the UnitedStates. The HPV vaccine works by preventing the most common types of HPV, and it’srecommended for all teen girls and women younger than 26. It’s most effectivewhen individuals receive all three doses of the vaccine before becomingsexually active.