A large-scale national health initiative has achieved significant success in its first three weeks, with over 1,200 adolescents receiving protection against human papillomavirus (HPV). The program, developed for the period 2025-2030, includes nearly 780 specialized medical professionals from across the country.
According to official information from the health ministry's press center, pediatricians and obstetrician-gynecologists have already signed contracts with the National Health Insurance Fund. They will administer the vaccines through a network of medical practices, whose data are publicly available on the specialized website "Plus Me".
The geography of the immunization process shows the highest activity in four major Bulgarian cities - Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna, and Stara Zagora. The program provides free vaccination for girls between 10 and not yet 15 years old, as well as for boys from 10 to not yet 14 years old.
The initial strategy focuses on a 10% coverage, but ambitious goals envision significant expansion. By 2030, 70% vaccination is expected among girls and 40% among boys. The phased expansion includes the inclusion of additional age groups.
An important emphasis in the program is the gradual expansion of target groups. From 2026, girls aged 15-17 will be covered, and in 2029, the coverage will include boys up to 15 years old and young women between 18 and 21 years old.
The Council of Ministers approved the program in April, emphasizing that girls who started their vaccination course under the previous program will be able to complete it under the new one. Dr. Kremena Parmakova from the "Infectious Diseases Surveillance" department confirmed the continuity of the immunization campaign.
The main goal of the initiative is to expand access to vaccination and raise awareness among adolescents about the prevention of oncological diseases caused by human papillomavirus.