HPV Vaccination in Germany: Experts Call for Action on International HPV Awareness Day
BERLIN, 03 March 2026 – On the eve of International HPV Awareness Day (4 March), health authorities and medical experts across Germany are intensifying their calls for parents to vaccinate their children against Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Despite the proven efficacy of the vaccine in preventing various types of cancer, vaccination rates in Germany remain significantly below international targets, with recent 2024 data showing a stagnation in uptake among adolescents.
The Current State of HPV Protection in Germany
As of early 2026, the Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) continues to emphasise that early immunisation is the most effective tool against HPV-related cancers. However, the latest figures released by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for the year 2024 reveal a concerning gap. Only 55% of 15-year-old girls and approximately 36% of boys in the same age group have completed their vaccination series.
In specific regions like Bavaria, the figures for 18-year-olds reached 56% for young women and 26% for young men in 2024. These numbers fall far short of the World Health Organization (WHO) goal, which aims for a 90% vaccination rate for girls globally by 2030.
STIKO Recommendations and Guidelines
The STIKO currently recommends the HPV vaccine for all children, regardless of gender. The primary window for vaccination is between the ages of 9 and 14. If the vaccination is missed during this period, it should be caught up as soon as possible, ideally before the age of 18.
| Feature | STIKO Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Target Age (Primary) | 9 to 14 years old |
| Catch-up Period | Up to 17 years old (before 18th birthday) |
| Dosage (9–14 years) | 2 doses (minimum 5-month interval) |
| Dosage (15+ years) | 3 doses |
Available Vaccines and Efficacy
In Germany, two primary vaccines are utilised to combat HPV. These vaccines target the “high-risk” types of the virus most commonly associated with cervical cancer, as well as cancers of the anus, throat, and genital area.
- Gardasil 9: A nonavalent vaccine that protects against nine HPV types (6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58). It is estimated to provide approximately 95% protection against the HPV types it covers.
- Cervarix: A bivalent vaccine focusing on HPV types 16 and 18, which are responsible for about 80% of cervical cancer cases.
The STIKO first recommended the vaccine for girls in 2007. In 2018, this recommendation was extended to include boys, acknowledging that HPV-related cancers and genital warts affect all genders and that vaccinating boys helps break the chain of infection.
Upcoming Health Events and Initiatives
Public health offices are using the month of March to increase visibility. In the district of Groß-Gerau, an exhibition titled “HPV has many faces” is scheduled to be featured during the “Day of the Health Office” on 19 March 2026. Furthermore, in neighbouring Austria, the state of Tyrol reported a successful campaign with 45,000 vaccinations recorded since July 2024, highlighting the potential impact of targeted local awareness.
The “Last Phase” for Young Adults
For young adults who missed their childhood vaccinations, a specific window is closing. Current health initiatives indicate that certain free vaccination programmes for adults up to the age of 30 are entering their final phase, set to conclude on 30 June 2026. Eligible individuals are encouraged to consult their physicians regarding catch-up options before this deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why should boys get the HPV vaccine?
While HPV is widely known for causing cervical cancer, it also causes cancers of the penis, anus, and oropharynx (throat), as well as genital warts in men. Vaccinating boys protects them directly and contributes to “herd immunity,” reducing the overall prevalence of the virus in the population.
Is the vaccine safe?
Yes. The HPV vaccines have been monitored for nearly two decades. Common side effects are mild, such as redness or swelling at the injection site, or a brief headache. Serious side effects are extremely rare.
What happens if the interval between the first and second dose is too short?
According to RKI guidelines, if the second dose is administered less than five months after the first dose in the 9–14 age group, a third dose is required to ensure long-term immunity.
Does the vaccine protect against all cancers?
No. The vaccine specifically targets cancers caused by Human Papillomaviruses. It does not replace the need for regular cervical cancer screening (Pap tests or HPV tests) for women, as the vaccine does not cover every single rare high-risk HPV type.