There are more than 200 types of human papillomavirus, or HPV, about 40 of which can be spread sexually. The Gardasil vaccine, which is given to both men and women, protects a person from seven of the most high-risk (cancer-causing) types of HPV, as well as the two types that cause most genital warts. Most people who contract HPV will get rid of the virus on their own, but those who don’t are at risk for cancer and genital warts. This vaccine is vital in the war against HPV.