This vaccination gap is putting tens of thousands at higher danger of contracting severe cancers when older. The alert was broadcast through an NHS social media message, encouraging young individuals who were overlooked during their school years to seek a catch-up vaccination. The NHS is now calling on anyone who missed out at school to take urgent action. The NHS emphasises that whilst the vaccine is most effective when administered before HPV exposure, it remains highly effective when given later and continues to provide vital protection against future cancer risk. HPV vaccine: the key factsArticle continues belowRoutinely offered to 12- to 13-year-olds in schoolProtects against HPV strains linked to multiple cancersFree NHS catch-up vaccination available up to age 25 for those who missed outMore information is available on the NHS website.