The Case for a Catch-Up HPV Vaccination Programme for Boys

The vaccination of adolescent boys in the UK has now begun.  The implementation of a universal HPV vaccination programme is an enormous step forward in public health and health equity, and will result in better health and wellbeing outcomes for both sexes.  However, there is no ‘catch-up’ programme for boys who are too old to receive the vaccination when they are in Year 8 in England and Wales, Year S1 in Scotland or Year 9 in Northern Ireland.  An opportunity is being missed to protect a very significant number of boys who will otherwise be left at risk of HPV-caused diseases.  HPV Action outlines the case for a catch-up vaccination programme for boys at: www.hpvaction.org/news/hpv-action-sets-out-its-case-for-a-catch-up-vaccination-programme-for-boys