Mandatory HPV Vaccination for Girls to Be Introduced in Ukraine Starting 2026

Starting January 1, 2026, significant changes are expected in the Vaccination Schedule in Ukraine. The Ministry of Health of Ukraine has announced the introduction of mandatory vaccination against the human papillomavirus (HPV) for girls aged 12 to 13 years. This decision is the result of efforts by national medical experts and opens up new opportunities for disease prevention.

The update to the vaccination schedule also includes a review of vaccination age schemes for certain infections, alongside a reduction in the number of injections for children. Thus, routine vaccinations against hepatitis B will now be administered at 2, 4, 6, and 18 months instead of the traditional schedule, which included vaccinations in the early days of life.

Changes in Vaccination

The changes concern not only HPV. Vaccination against measles, mumps, and rubella will now take place at 1 and 4 years, instead of 1 and 6 years as previously done. This will reduce the risk of severe cases of diseases in children.

As for the BCG vaccine, it will now be administered on the first day after birth instead of on the 3rd to 5th day. The Ministry has also announced the transition to an inactivated polio vaccine aimed at increasing protection for children against dangerous infections.

Preparation of Doctors and Resources

Family doctors will prepare to adapt to the new vaccination plans to provide parents with adequate information about the changes. In the Lutsk Children’s Clinic, for example, it is noted that they vaccinate up to a hundred children daily and ensure an adequate supply of vaccines to meet the new requirements.

As pediatrician Maria Vilyura stated, the changes were introduced to increase vaccination coverage and create a more effective immunity among the population. It is expected that this decision will impact the overall health level of the younger generation in Ukraine.

The real goal of the innovations is not only to prevent diseases but also to foster a conscious attitude among parents towards vaccination as a factor in their children's health.