What are the current recommendations for HPV vaccination in different age groups in the UK?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination recommendations in the United Kingdom vary by age group as follows:

• Girls aged 12–13 years: HPV vaccination is routinely offered as part of the national childhood immunisation programme. Vaccination at this age is encouraged to ensure optimum effectiveness before the onset of sexual activity.

• Females from age 16 years onwards: Women are encouraged to participate in the NHS cervical screening programme (ages 25–64 years) alongside vaccination efforts. HPV vaccination is advised before becoming sexually active to prevent infection and related cancers.

• Sexually active girls and women: Even if sexually active, vaccination with the nine-valent HPV vaccine is recommended as it provides protection against anogenital warts and various HPV-related cancers (vaginal, vulval, anal).

Additional advice includes the use of barrier contraception methods such as condoms to reduce HPV transmission risk, although condoms do not fully eliminate the risk. Limiting the number of sexual partners also reduces exposure risk. HIV infection is noted as a risk factor for progression of HPV infection to cervical cancer.

Vaccination should ideally be given before sexual debut to maximize preventive benefits against HPV infection and associated diseases.