HPV Vaccination Programme to begin in Gibraltar schools

The Gibraltar Health Authority will begin its HPV vaccination programme in Gibraltar’s comprehensive schools on Friday 2 October 2026, with Health Visitors attending Westside and Bayside Schools to commence vaccinations.

The HPV vaccine is being offered to boys and girls in School Year 8, aged approximately 12–13 years. HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a very common virus. While most HPV infections cause no symptoms and clear naturally, some types can cause cancers, including cancers of the cervix, anus, genital areas and head and neck, as well as genital warts.

HPV vaccination is not just for girls. Boys can also be affected by HPV and can develop HPV-related cancers. Vaccinating at an early age is most effective as this provides protection before young people are likely to come into contact with the virus.

The HPV vaccine prevents cervical cancer because it targets the high-risk HPV strains responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases. This makes HPV vaccination an important opportunity to protect future generations and work towards the elimination of cervical cancer altogether.

The HPV vaccine has been used worldwide for many years and has a strong safety record. The impact of HPV vaccination has been demonstrated in countries with high vaccination uptake. In some countries the number of genital wart diagnoses among young people fell by more than 90% following the introduction of the national HPV vaccination programme.

Members of the public under 25 years old who have missed their HPV vaccination when previously eligible may still be able to receive the vaccination, subject to the applicable eligibility criteria.

Anyone who has missed their vaccination during the school vaccination programme is encouraged to call 20003351 or contact the CHC on 20007962 to book an appointment.

For further information about the HPV vaccine, including eligibility, benefits and possible side effects, please visit the https://www.gha.gi/services/public-health-services/public-health-services/childrens-health/teenagers-and-adolescents/hpv-vaccine/