Human papillomaviruses (HPV) are one of the main causes of certain cancers, including cervical cancer and tumours in the mouth, throat, or genital area. HPV vaccines provide effective protection, especially when administered early at the recommended age of 9 to 14 years for girls and boys. The Paul-Ehrlich-Institut supports the ongoing measures of the National Steering Committee on Vaccination (Nationale Lenkungsgruppe Impfen, NaLI) to improve vaccination protection in Germany and is a permanent guest of the NaLI. As the higher federal authority responsible for the evaluation, authorisation, and safety monitoring of vaccines in Germany, the Institute lends its scientific and regulatory expertise to NaLI's work. The Paul-Ehrlich-Institut thus makes a significant contribution to the evidence-based development of joint recommendations and strategies.
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In order to sustainably improve timely HPV vaccination protection in Germany, the National Steering Committee on Vaccination has presented a national concept to promote vaccination education and boost HPV vaccination rates. The concept bundles recommendations and objectives to provide better information to the public, to strengthen the quality of vaccination advice in the healthcare sector, to expand low-threshold vaccination services, and to further develop monitoring and surveillance.
The aim is to close existing vaccination gaps and further increase HPV vaccination acceptance. A primary focus of the concept is the implementation of a national HPV vaccination year in 2028, which is to be used for nationwide coordinated education and vaccination campaigns.
Updated: 22.01.2026
