HPV vaccine catch-up appointments are being offered to eligible secondary school students across Cork and Kerry who missed vaccination in first year. The HSE South West programme provides another free opportunity to reduce the risk of HPV-related cancers later in life.
HPV vaccine catch-up programme begins in Cork and Kerry
HSE South West vaccination teams are preparing to visit post-primary schools as part of the latest phase of the Laura Brennan HPV Catch-up Vaccination Programme. The initiative is aimed at students in second, third, fourth and fifth year who have not previously received an HPV vaccine.
The programme supports Ireland’s longer-term goal of eliminating cervical cancer by 2040. HPV vaccination is designed to protect against infections that can contribute to several cancers, including cervical, throat, anal, penile and vulval cancers.
Who can receive the vaccine?
The free HPV vaccine catch-up offer is available to:
- Male and female students in second to fifth year, generally aged 14 to 18.
- Home-educated young people and students attending special schools born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2012.
Only young people who have not received any HPV vaccination are eligible. Sixth-year students were offered catch-up vaccination during fifth year in the 2025–2026 academic year.
Why HPV vaccination matters
HPV is a common virus that can remain dormant for years before contributing to disease. Gardasil 9 can help prevent HPV-related cancers and genital warts when administered before exposure to the virus.
Although the programme was initially associated with preventing cervical cancer in girls, boys have also been included since 2019. HPV is linked to cancers affecting men, including oropharyngeal, anal and penile cancers. Routine screening is not available for some of these cancers, making prevention particularly important.
Data from the first phase of the national school HPV catch-up programme indicates that more than 2,000 young people in Ireland who had previously missed vaccination have since received protection.
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Consent and vaccination details for families
Parents or guardians must provide consent for eligible students aged 15 and under. Young people aged 16 or older may consent for themselves. Families should discuss HPV vaccination openly and review official information before the school visit.
A child who received one HPV dose in first year is considered fully vaccinated and does not need another dose. Young people with weakened immune systems who have completed their recommended three-dose course also do not require further vaccination.
The regular first-year school vaccination programme will continue separately, offering HPV, Tdap and MenACWY vaccines. Families can find further guidance through HSE.ie.
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Laura Brennan’s lasting legacy
The catch-up initiative continues the legacy of Laura Brennan, whose public advocacy raised awareness of HPV vaccination in Ireland. Her campaign encouraged young people and families to recognise the vaccine’s role in preventing serious illness.
Key takeaway for parents and students
The HPV vaccine catch-up programme gives eligible students in Cork and Kerry another chance to receive free protection. Families should check eligibility, complete the required consent process and use trusted HSE information to make an informed decision.
Article/Image Courtesy: HSE
