The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has published advice, stating by vaccinating men who have sex with men (MSM) aged up to 45 attending GUM and HIV clinics would help to prevent the spread of HPV related diseases, such as mouth, head, anal and penile cancers.
A spokesperson for the JCVI has said the Department of Health, Public Health England, Local Government and NHS England must work together to devise a strategy which ensures both efficacy and cost-effectiveness are taken into consideration when commissioning arrangements are discussed.
Mike Freer MP, who has been campaigning on expanding the HPV vaccination to include both MSM and heterosexual males commented:
“The campaign to extend HPV vaccinations to MSM has finally paid off. The JCVI have now agreed the programme and I'm delighted MSM will now be offered protection from HPV related cancers."
In response to the advice offered by the JCVI, the DH says it welcomes the guidance offered by the independent health body and will carefully consider the evidence provided and make clear its approach in due course.