Following updated advice from JCVI, Teenagers and eligible GBMSM under the age of 25 will only require a single HPV jab from September.

Other countries, such as Australia and Scotland, have already made the move to one dose, based on evidence from a range of studies, which shows that a single dose of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine offers robust protection that is comparable to 2 doses.

The HPV vaccine has been part of the NHS routine vaccination schedule since 2008.

From September 2023, routine adolescent HPV immunisation programme for all children in shool year 8 (aged 12 to 13 years) will move from 2 doses to one dose, offered mainly in secondary schools – this includes children not in mainstream school via a community clinic delivery model and eligible gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) under the age of 25 will move from 2 doses to one dose, offered through sexual health clinics.

Dr Vanessa Saliba, immunisation consultant epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), said: "The HPV vaccination programme is one of the most successful in the world and has dramatically lowered the rates of cervical cancer and harmful infections in both women and men – preventing many cancers and saving lives.

"The latest evidence shows that one dose provides protection as robust as 2 doses. This is excellent news for young people.

"If you missed your HPV vaccine, it is vital you get protected. Contact your school nurse, school immunisation team or GP practice to arrange an appointment – you remain eligible to receive the vaccine until your 25th birthday."

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