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Travel health.
Clearly explained.

HPV vaccine

HPV vaccination reduces infection with important human papillomavirus types associated with cervical and other cancers and genital warts.

What is it?

HPV is a common group of viruses spread through close skin-to-skin sexual contact. Persistent high-risk infection can cause several cancers.

Where it may be relevant

  • People eligible through the NHS programme
  • Those needing catch-up after missed routine vaccination
  • People seeking an individual private eligibility assessment

Dose schedules.

The clinician will select the appropriate licensed schedule after reviewing age, health, previous doses and departure date.

Single-dose programme

Most eligible adolescents

Dose 1Day 0

Multi-dose course

Older or immunocompromised people

Dose 1Day 0
Dose 2At least 1 month
Dose 3At least 3 months after dose 2

The number and spacing of doses depend on age and immune status.

Who may be eligible

  • People within the licensed age range
  • Dose number determined by age at first dose and immune status

Who may not be eligible

  • Anyone with a confirmed severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or a vaccine ingredient
  • People who are acutely unwell with a significant fever may need vaccination deferred
  • Pregnancy, breastfeeding, immune suppression and current medicines must be reviewed individually

Potential side effects

  • Pain, redness or swelling where the injection is given
  • Headache, tiredness, muscle aches or a mild fever
  • Feeling faint around the time of vaccination

Important risks and precautions

  • A severe allergic reaction is very rare and requires urgent treatment
  • Protection is not absolute, so relevant food, water, bite or exposure precautions remain important
  • The exact product and schedule must be confirmed during a clinical assessment

Clinical references

Further information.

Information is general and does not replace a personal assessment, prescribing decision or the latest destination-specific advice.

Frequently asked questions

What does the HPV vaccine protect against?

It reduces infection with HPV types responsible for many cancers and genital warts.

Who should consider the HPV vaccine?

It is most effective before exposure but may still be considered later after individual review.

How many doses of the HPV vaccine are needed?

Some eligible people need one dose; older or immunocompromised people may need two or three.

Can I have the HPV vaccine close to departure?

Book an assessment even when departure is close. Whether vaccination can be completed or still provide useful protection depends on the product, previous doses and time available.

Can the HPV vaccine be given with other vaccines?

Many vaccines can be given at the same appointment, but spacing rules can apply to some live vaccines. The clinician will check the products, your history and the proposed schedule.