Human papillomavirus vaccine changes to one dose
Human papillomavirus vaccine changes to one dose
6 February 2023
From 6 February 2023, adolescents in Australia will only need one dose of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to be considered fully vaccinated.
This change is based on the most recent international scientific and clinical evidence which shows that one dose of this vaccine gives excellent protective effects compared to 2 doses.
HPV is a virus that can cause cancers, warts and other conditions that may lead to serious health consequences. HPV viruses are spread through close physical contact, including sex.
The vaccine protects against the strains of HPV that are sexually transmitted.
The HPV vaccine is free under the National Immunisation Program for:
- School-based immunisation program (SBIP) – Year 7 students (aged 12 to 13 years)
If you’re a parent or guardian of a year 7 student and have already consented for your child to receive 2 doses of the HPV vaccine as part of the SBIP, once your child receives one dose, they will not need any further doses.
- Catch-up program – young people aged 12 up to and including 25 years old who haven’t yet had the HPV vaccine can get it through their immunisation provider. (Consultation fees may apply.) Find out where to get vaccinated.
For more information visit the HPV vaccination page on the Department of Health and Aged Care website (external site).
*For people who are immunocompromised, they should still receive the recommended 3 doses of the HPV vaccine.