1) HPV is NOT a strictly an 'STD'. It can be carried in some cells (like cutical cells) and transmitted to the Vaginal cells during regular hygene routines. Sexual transmission is probably the main vector, but there is strong evidence to suggest that the HPV variants most responsible for cervical cancer (which is larger than the set that can cause 'genital warts') can be transmitted reliably in other ways. The Christian Right and the Media are largely responsible for this 'STD' nonsense. Also consider Rape, Incest and (I hate to say it) gynecological exams performed with improper sterilization. As much as the christianuts and sensational media types want to boil this down to that evil (gasp) SEX- its really not about sex at all, its about stopping a major cause of death.

2) Nearly _ALL_ cervical cancers are caused by HPV. Thousands and thousands of women are rendered sterile or outright killed by this disease every single year.

3) The vaccine has passed FDA trials and has been widely used for a number of years, without any notable incidents. I know you still thik that vaccines cause hairy palms, autism and Republicanism- but the best science we have says its safe.

4) Just because a big drug comapny made it and is going to make a killing on it, doesn't mean its necessarily some Big Evil Conspiracy. I think it should be mandatory and _FREE_.

5) People can opt out of it in Texas. Nobody is putting a gun to their head.

6) Its probably the best thing for womens health since the invention of the Birth Control Pill or the Condom.

DL