Ireland Launches Expanded HPV Vaccine Catch-Up Program Honoring Laura Brennan’s Legacy
Offering a crucial opportunity for protection against the human papillomavirus, Ireland is extending its HPV vaccine catch-up program to students in fifth and sixth year of post-primary school, building on the transformative work of late advocate Laura Brennan.
The initiative, announced Thursday by Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill and Minister for Education and Youth Hildegarde Naughton, aims to provide a further vaccination opportunity to young people, both male and female, who may have missed initial vaccination opportunities. The Health Service Executive (HSE) will deliver the program primarily through schools, continuing a phased rollout that began in 2022.
Continuing a Legacy of Increased Uptake
This expanded program directly honors the tireless advocacy of Laura Brennan, whose efforts dramatically increased HPV vaccine uptake rates across Ireland. “This program continues the legacy of Laura Brennan whose advocacy transformed HPV vaccine uptake in Ireland,” officials stated.
The first phase of the expanded program will focus on students in fifth and sixth year between January and August 2026, offering free HPV vaccines. Recognizing the diverse needs of students, the program also extends to those who are home-educated. Any child born between September 1, 2006, and August 31, 2009, who did not receive the vaccine during their first year of post-primary school is eligible.
Phased Rollout and Consent Guidelines
Following the initial phase, the HPV vaccine will become available to students in second through fifth year during the 2026/2027 academic year. Health officials emphasize that the most effective time to receive the vaccine remains during the initially offered school-based program for first-year students, which will continue uninterrupted throughout 2026.
Clear guidelines have been established regarding consent. Young people aged 16 and over can independently provide consent for vaccination. For those 15 years and under, consent will be required from parents or guardians. Regional vaccination teams will visit local schools to administer the vaccine to eligible students. Parents of home-educated children are advised to contact their Local Health Office (LHO) for details on accessing the vaccine; a comprehensive list of LHO contact details is available at www.immunisation.ie.
A senior official underscored the importance of proactive vaccination, stating, “It is important to remember that the most effective time to get the HPV vaccine is when it is first offered.”
This expanded catch-up program represents a significant step in safeguarding the health of Ireland’s young people and solidifying the lasting impact of Laura Brennan’s dedication to public health.
