The HSE is launching the new HPV Catch-Up Campaign on 15 January 2026, giving young people who previously missed the HPV vaccine a once-off opportunity to get protected against HPV-related cancers.
HPV (human papillomavirus) is a very common virus. Over 80% of people will get an HPV infection in their lifetime. While most infections clear on their own, some can persist and lead to cancer. Almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV, and the virus can also cause cancers of the mouth and throat, anus, vagina, vulva and penis.
The HPV vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect against these cancers. It has already been offered to 1st year students for many years.
Who is eligible?
Students in 5th and 6th year of secondary school who were previously offered the HPV vaccine in school but did not receive it, can now get the vaccine free of charge. This catch-up will be delivered through schools, ensuring easy access for all eligible students.
If your child is home-educated and born between 1st September 2006 and the 31st August 2009, and did not receive the HPV vaccine in 1st year of secondary school, the free HPV vaccine is still available.
To arrange an appointment, you will need to contact your local health office (LHO) and ask to speak with the HSE immunisation team, who will support you with booking an appointment.
You can find contact details for your local health office here: www.hse.ie/eng/health/immunisation/whoweare/lhos.html
Why getting vaccinated matters?
– The HPV vaccine helps prevent several types of cancer.
– It protects both boys and girls.
– Over 590,000 students in Ireland and 100 million people worldwide have already received the HPV vaccine safely.
– Countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Norway, the UK and the US have seen strong success from HPV vaccination programmes.
As part of this campaign, students and parents will have access to a school pack containing the following:
– The HPV Catch-Up Information Booklet (explaining the vaccine, why it’s needed, and common questions)
– The Consent Form
Schools will contact eligible students and parents directly.
Parents of children who are home-schooled can find information on accessing the vaccine at www.hpv.ie
The HPV Catch-Up Campaign continues the legacy of Laura Brennan, whose advocacy helped transform HPV vaccine uptake in Ireland. For more information visit www.hpv.ie
About Laura Brennan
Laura Brennan from Ennis Co. Clare was a campaigner and advocate for the HPV vaccine. She passed away from cervical cancer in 2019 at the age of 26.
An RTÉ documentary, following the final chapters of her life, ‘Laura Brennan: This Is Me’, is available on the RTÉ Player.