The Province of B.C. is expanding its free, publicly funded HPV vaccine program and simplifying the dosing schedule, aiming to increase protection against HPV-related cancers.
Starting July 31, 2025, the HPV vaccine will shift to a one-dose schedule for people aged 9 to 20. People aged 21 and older will receive two doses six months apart, while those who are immunocompromised will continue to need three doses.
The program now includes free access for all people aged 19 to 26. It also extends eligibility to those aged 27 to 45 who are living with HIV or identify as gay, bisexual, Two-Spirit, transgender, non-binary, or questioning. Anyone receiving post-colposcopy treatment after July 31 is eligible at any age.
The vaccine continues to be offered in Grade 6 through school-based programs, with additional options available at pharmacies, STI clinics, public health units, and First Nations health centres.
HPV is a common virus linked to multiple types of cancer. Early vaccination provides the best protection, and more than 200 million doses have been safely administered worldwide.
This expansion supports B.C.’s 10-year Cancer Action Plan, which aims to reduce cancer rates and improve health outcomes across the province.
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