The HPV vaccine is offered free to all S1 pupils in secondary school because it is most effective before they become sexually active.

Most pupils will only need one dose of the vaccine.

The vaccine is offered in secondary school to ensure easy access for eligible pupils.

Immunisation helps protect against the HPV virus.

The virus can lead to cancers such as:

• head and neck cancers
• cervical cancer (in anyone with a cervix)
• anogenital cancers (for example anal and penile cancer, and cancer of the vagina and vulva)

The Scottish Government Chief Medical Officer letter provides information on key elements of the HPV adolescent immunisation programme (external website).

Who can't get vaccinated

Most young people can be vaccinated.

Young people should not have some vaccines if they have had a confirmed anaphylactic reaction (or serious allergic reaction):

• to a previous vaccine
• to any vaccine ingredient

Having a mild allergic reaction to a vaccine does not mean a young person should not receive a vaccine.

Asthma, eczema, hay fever, food intolerances and all other allergies do not prevent anyone from having most vaccines.

If a young person has had a severe reaction to a vaccination in the past, it is important they include this in their consent form.

They should also let the person giving them the vaccine know on the day.

Delayed and missed vaccines

If a student is ill on vaccination day

If a young person is ill with a fever, they should delay the immunisation until  they have recovered.

This is to avoid the fever being wrongly associated with the vaccine, and the possibility that the vaccine may increase the fever they already have.

If they have a minor illness without a fever, such as a cold, they should still have the immunisation.

Missing a school vaccine

If a pupil misses any of their doses, there will be further opportunities to get the vaccine. For example, some young people may be offered a rescheduled vaccination day the next year. 

If a young person misses their vaccination their local Health Board will be in touch to rearrange their appointment.

If a young person has left school or are unsure if they have missed any vaccinations, they can contact their GP.