What is Human Papillomavirus (HPV)? 

HPV can infect the skin and cells lining the inside of the body. Most people will have HPV at some point in their life, and the infection is usually cleared from the body. But there are high-risk HPV types that can cause cancer if they stay in the body for a long time. We now know through research that almost all cervical cancer cases are caused by HPV.  It can also be linked to other types of cancer in the body too. 

How does the vaccine work? 

The HPV vaccine helps to prevent cervical cancer by protecting against HPV. The vaccine works in a similar way to other vaccines, it tricks the body into thinking it has been exposed to HPV. The immune system then produces antibodies to fight the virus. If the body is exposed to the virus again in the future, the immune system can quickly recognise it and produce the virus-fighting antibodies. This makes it quicker and easier for the body to clear HPV.  

When was this vaccine introduced? 

The UK HPV vaccination programme started in 2008. Now, the vaccine is offered to boys and girls at age 11-13, and is delivered in schools by the School Aged Immunisation Service.  

How the HPV Vaccine is impacting Cervical Cancer rates 

The HPV vaccine has been estimated to reduce the risk of cervical cancer death before age 30 to effectively zero, according to the first study looking at lives saved by the vaccine. 

"In the most recent five-year period (2020-2024), and for the first time on record, no women in their early 20s died from cervical cancer in England. Around 9 in 10 women in this age group received the HPV vaccine, most when they were 12 or 13, which is when the vaccine offers the strongest protection." Cancer Research UK 

Eligibility 

All young people aged 12 to 13 (school year 8) are eligible for HPV vaccinations. Any young people who miss their vaccination are then eligible to receive it as part of a catch-up cohort between the ages of 14 and 25.