Andorra Extends Free HPV Shots to Age 24 with Single-Dose Plan

Andorra's Health Ministry is expanding its free HPV vaccination programme to include people born on or after 1 January 2002, allowing access up to age 25 as they turn that age, with a single-dose schedule for those under 25.

The changes take effect from 28 September 2026. Eligible 12-year-olds starting this school year will receive one dose at educational centres, moving away from multi-dose protocols. School-enrolled young people can use school health services, while others must book appointments at CAP primary care centres or vaccine clinics until 31 December 2027. No prescription is needed for the single dose, though medical advice may call for additional doses in specific cases, particularly from age 25.

Public health doctor Mireia Garcia said studies confirm a single dose up to age 25 provides equivalent effectiveness against HPV infections, which can lead to cervical, head and neck, and anogenital cancers as well as genital warts. Those under 25 with one prior dose are deemed fully protected unless clinical needs dictate otherwise.

The programme, launched for girls in 2014 with three doses and extended to boys with two doses, seeks to boost male uptake and close coverage gaps. HPV, a common sexually transmitted infection, often clears naturally but can persist and cause serious issues years later. Vaccinating boys protects them and reduces transmission to partners.

Garcia stressed the need to raise awareness among males: "It is a very effective measure in preventing infections that cause cancers, so it is important that boys and girls, especially boys who started later, also take up vaccination." Outreach will target schools, social media and non-student young adults. Minors under 16 require parental accompaniment. Officials note positive vaccination trends but lack data on the strategy's full impact. The service is free and voluntary for all eligible groups.