Eligible groups

The HPV vaccine is offered 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 HPV vaccine has been offered to girls in Scotland since 2008. This has reduced cancer-causing HPV in young women in Scotland by 90%.

In previous years, two doses of the vaccine were recommended. Evidence now shows that only one dose is needed to give protection, unless further doses are clinically required. 

For that reason, all eligible secondary school-aged children will now be offered one dose. That dose provides them with the same level of protection as the previous two doses. 

This means that most young people who've already received one dose are now fully vaccinated. They don't require any further doses of the HPV vaccine.

HPV vaccine for men who have sex with men (MSM)

The HPV vaccine is also offered to men who have sex with men (MSM) aged up to, and including 45 years of age, who attend sexual health/HIV clinics. 

From September 2022, only one dose of the vaccine will be offered before their 25th birthday. A two-dose schedule is offered for those aged between 25 years of age and up to and including 45 years of age.

People who are HIV positive or have certain long-term health conditions may be offered three doses.

Further information on the MSM HPV vaccination programme can be found on NHS inform (external website).

Last updated: 16 November 2022