Article · Health news

WHO immunization advisers recommend a single-dose HPV schedule for girls aged 9 to 14

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On 29 October 2026 the WHO reported that its immunization advisers, meeting on 5 to 8 October, recommend a single-dose HPV vaccine schedule for girls aged 9 to 14.

Key points

  • The WHO's Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE) met from 5 to 8 October 2026.
  • SAGE recommends HPV vaccination of girls aged 9 to 14 years with a single-dose schedule, which it describes as the most efficient immunization strategy for cervical cancer prevention.
  • SAGE says countries may consider routine single-dose vaccination of girls aged 4 to 8 years.

What was announced

A message from the director of the World Health Organization's immunization department, dated 29 October 2026, reports on the October meeting of its Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE), held from 5 to 8 October. SAGE recommends human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination of girls aged 9 to 14 years using a single-dose schedule, which it describes as the most efficient immunization strategy for cervical cancer prevention.

According to the meeting highlights, countries may also consider routine single-dose vaccination of girls aged 4 to 8 years, and single-dose coverage could later extend to further target groups. The director's message adds that a single dose can be used for people up to age 30.

What it means

The 2022 SAGE position allowed one or two doses for the primary target group of girls aged 9 to 14; the October 2026 advice is for a single dose.

More guides and news

Educational content. This article summarises public guidance and announcements in plain English for education. It is not medical advice and it cannot say what is right for you: speak to a clinician about your own health, call NHS 111 if you are unsure what to do and 999 in an emergency.