Hong Kong's publicly funded HPV programme covers girls only. Boys currently can't get the vaccine free or subsidised and would pay privately.
What the public programme covers
The government's HPV funding has two parts: the school programme for Primary 5 and 6 girls, and the one-off catch-up programme for females born between 2004 and 2008. Both are for females only. Boys aren't in the target group for either.
If a boy wants the vaccine
A boy who wants HPV vaccination would go to a private doctor, clinic or private hospital and pay out of pocket. The cost depends on the number of doses and the vaccine used. Check the price and schedule with the doctor first.
Why vaccination matters for males
HPV infects both sexes. HPV vaccination in males protects against genital warts and HPV-related cancers such as anal, oropharyngeal and penile cancer. Vaccinating boys also helps reduce overall transmission of the virus in the population.
The Scientific Committee under Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection keeps HPV vaccination recommendations under review. Whether the publicly funded programme will extend to boys depends on future government announcements.