Cervical Cancer Prevention Week – 19 to 25 January

The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine programme

The HPV vaccine used in the NHS programme protects against nine high-risk types of HPV which can cause 99%* of cervical cancers, plus mouth, anal, penile, vulval and vaginal cancers. (*World Health Organisation)

The NHS has an ambition to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040. To meet that target, it needs to ensure as many people as possible are being vaccinated against HPV, while also coming forward for cervical screening.

Who is eligible for the HPV vaccine?

  • Year 8 schoolchildren (usually aged 12 and 13) are given the HPV vaccine through the school immunisation programme.
  • If a child misses their HPV vaccine at school, they can catch up with the vaccine through their school or GP practice and remain eligible to receive it until they turn 25. 
  • Gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) can have the vaccine up to and including 45 years of age from specialist sexual health services and/or HIV clinics regardless of risk, sexual behaviour or disease status. 

It is important for all girls who have received the HPV vaccine to also have regular cervical screening once they reach 25. 

Attachment

HPV vaccine campaign poster

PDF, 562.2 KB

Published on 20 January 2026