Teens in England will only get one dose of the HPV vaccine

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By Michelle Roberts, Digital Health Editor

3 hours ago

Image source, Getty Images

Adolescents in England will be offered one injection of the HPV vaccine instead of two, from September, in line with the latest evidence and recommendations already in place in Scotland.

Studies from around the world show that a single dose is sufficient to provide good protection against a range of cancers, including cervical cancer.

Schoolchildren are offered the vaccine when they are around 11-13 years old.

HPV is a common virus that is usually spread through intimate sexual contact.

It is highly contagious and is spread by close skin-to-skin contact.

There are more than 100 different types of human papillomavirus (HPV) and the infection usually causes no symptoms — although some types can cause warts on the hands, feet, genitals, or inside the mouth.

Most people’s bodies clear the virus without treatment – but high-risk types can cause abnormal tissue growth that can lead to cancer.

Those protected by the vaccine from the cause:

Almost all cases of cervical cancer are more common than anal cancers, some genital cancers and head and neck cancers

From September in England, a single dose will be offered for:

All children in Grade 8 – ages 12-13 who are eligible men who have sex with men under the age of 25

Two doses will continue to be given for:

Men who have sex with men, ages 25 to 45

You will be given three doses of:

People who are HIV positive or who are immunosuppressed

Dr Vanessa Saliba, Consultant Epidemiologist at the UK’s Health Security Agency, said: “The HPV vaccination program is one of the most successful in the world and has reduced rates of cervical cancer and harmful infections in both women and men – leading to It has prevented many types of cancer and saved lives.

“The latest evidence shows that one dose provides as strong protection as two doses. This is excellent news for young people.”

“If you miss the HPV vaccine, it is essential that you get protection. Contact your school nurse, school immunization team, or GP clinic to arrange an appointment—you remain eligible to receive the vaccine until your 25th birthday.”

Steve Russell, Director of National Screening and Immunization, said: “This is another step forward for the world’s leading HPV vaccination programme, which saves lives by significantly reducing the risk of cervical cancer.

“With HPV one quick hit, it is now easier than ever to reduce the risk of cancer caused by the virus, it is very important that people come forward when they are invited.

“Besides getting the HPV vaccine, it’s also still important to book a Pap smear appointment, which checks for high-risk HPV and remains one of the best ways to protect yourself against cervical cancer.”

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