Extension of Free HPV Catch-Up Vaccination for Under-30s Welcomed by Health Officials

In a significant move for public health, the Federal Target Control Commission has announced the extension of the free HPV catch-up vaccination program for young adults aged 21 to 30. This initiative, now set to continue until the end of June 2026, demonstrates a commitment to fostering equitable healthcare access and cancer prevention among younger populations.

The program will remain financed through the Public Adult Vaccination Program, supported by social insurance, federal resources, and state contributions. Originally scheduled to conclude on December 31, 2025, this extension highlights the ongoing importance of preventive health measures that are accessible to individuals regardless of their socioeconomic background.

Individuals under the age of 30 still have the opportunity to receive the first dose of this two-part vaccination before the year's end, with the second dose available until mid-2026. Health officials emphasize the crucial role of the HPV vaccine in preventing various cancers, including cervical cancer and oropharyngeal cancer. Statistics reveal that approximately 400 women in Austria are diagnosed with cervical cancer annually, leading to around 140 fatalities. The HPV vaccine can reduce the risk of these cancers by up to 90%, underscoring the necessity of such preventive health strategies.

The chairperson of the Conference of Social Insurance Providers has called attention to the importance of preventive health measures and encourages parents to ensure that both daughters and sons receive the vaccination as part of the childhood immunization program. It is critical to recognize that young men can also be affected by HPV, and vaccination serves to protect not only themselves but also those around them.

Recent data indicates a growing demand for the HPV vaccine among young adults, with over 148,000 vaccinations recorded between July 2024 and May 2025. Health officials are keen to maximize this opportunity for vaccination, emphasizing that immunization saves lives.