HPV9 vaccine to be added to national immunisation schedules from January 2027

“Both the HPV2 and HPV9 vaccines protect against HPV types 16 and 18, which cause 70 per cent of all cervical cancers,” said MOH, HPB and CDA on Friday.

“The HPV9 vaccine provides broader protection by also covering additional HPV types that account for a further 20 per cent of cervical cancers, bringing its total coverage to approximately 90 per cent.”

Under the updated recommendations, unvaccinated females may start their vaccination series with either HPV2 or HPV9.

Two doses are recommended for those receiving their first dose from age 9 to 14, while three doses are recommended for those receiving their first dose from age 15 to 26.

If HPV vaccination is started but not completed by age 26, the remaining doses may be taken after age 26, as soon as possible and up to age 45, said the authorities.

Females who started their vaccination series with HPV2 or HPV4 and have remaining doses may complete the series with HPV9. HPV4, previously known as Gardasil, is no longer available in Singapore and has been removed from the NCIS and NAIS.

“Studies have shown that such mixed HPV vaccination schedules are safe and provide protection against the HPV strains covered by both vaccines,” said MOH, HPB and CDA.

Those who have completed their recommended HPV vaccination schedules are not recommended to receive additional HPV9 doses.