Occupational Exposure to Human Papillomavirus and Vaccination for Health Care Workers

Multiple studies suggest that health care workers treating human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated conditions may experience occupational exposure to the virus. Case reports describe the development of cancer and other disease in health care professionals at low risk for such conditions except for their work. Despite limited data, vaccination can be a safe and effective method to reduce this uncertain risk. We argue that health care workers, including physicians, nurses, and others, who participate in the treatment of HPV-associated disease should consider vaccination.