World Health Organization vaccine experts recommended that countries consider routine human papillomavirus vaccination for girls as young as four years old to improve lagging global coverage. Anthony Scott, chair of the WHO Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunisation, stated that current global coverage sits at 33%, falling far short of the 90% target.
The World Health Organization’s immunization experts have advised that countries can consider routine human papillomavirus vaccination for girls starting at age four, provided the shift helps boost lagging immunization rates. Anthony Scott, who chairs the WHO Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunisation, announced the guidance to reporters, noting that approximately 165 countries have introduced the vaccine so far.
Global coverage currently stands at 33%. The WHO continues to prioritize routine vaccination for all girls aged nine to 14.
Single-Dose Vaccine Schedule Targets Global Goal
To reach the 90% coverage target more efficiently, SAGE reviewed updated evidence and maintained its backing for a single-dose schedule for girls aged nine to 14. Back in 2022, SAGE originally recommended a one- or two-dose schedule for girls aged nine to 14 and young women aged 15 to 20, alongside a two-dose schedule with a six-month interval for women over 21.
The updated guidance allows countries to expand routine vaccination to girls aged four to eight years if health officials project that the change will increase uptake. By the end of 2025, more than 95 million girls had received human papillomavirus vaccines, according to Kate O’Brien, head of the WHO vaccines department.
SAGE also recommended expanding single-dose vaccination to additional target groups in a prioritized order. Catch-up vaccinations are recommended for women up to age 25, followed by women up to age 30, routine vaccination for boys aged nine to 14, and catch-up vaccination for males up to age 20.
Global Cervical Cancer Burden and Regional Disparities
Cervical cancer, which stems from persistent human papillomavirus infection, ranks as the fifth most commonly diagnosed cancer in women globally. The WHO recorded roughly 604,000 new cases and approximately 280,000 deaths in 2024.
The disease remains the leading cause of cancer death in women across 26 countries. These nations are located primarily in sub-Saharan Africa, parts of South and Central America, Melanesia, and southeast Asia.
As of 2025, eight licensed human papillomavirus vaccines exist worldwide. In Ireland, the Health Service Executive recommends the vaccine, specifically Gardasil 9, for boys and girls in their first year of secondary school, typically between ages 12 and 13. Health officials also recommend the vaccine for individuals with weakened immune systems.
Frequently Asked Questions About HPV Vaccination Guidance
Why is the WHO recommending vaccination for girls as young as four?
The WHO suggested lowering the routine vaccination window to ages four through eight specifically for countries where earlier delivery is likely to increase overall uptake and close the gap on the 33% global coverage rate.
How many doses are currently recommended for adolescents?
SAGE recommends a single-dose schedule for girls aged nine to 14 as the most efficient way to reach global immunization targets, following its 2022 policy updates.
Which vaccine is administered in Ireland?
The Health Service Executive uses Gardasil 9 for boys and girls in their first year of secondary school, usually between ages 12 and 13, as well as for individuals with weak immune systems.