Anambra State, Nigeria – The Anambra State government aims to vaccinate one million girls between the ages of nine and 14 against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) by December 2024. The initiative is part of a broader effort to safeguard young girls from cervical cancer.
At a media dialogue on HPV vaccination in Awka, Commissioner for Health Dr. Afam Obidike emphasized the vaccine’s safety and urged parents and guardians to ensure their daughters receive the free vaccination available at all public health facilities in the state.
The vaccination campaign follows a statewide screening that revealed a 1.7% HPV positivity rate among 17,000 individuals. Dr. Obidike highlighted the state’s commitment to public health, stressing that the HPV vaccine is crucial for protecting girls from cervical cancer. He noted that while the vaccine has been available in the country, it has often been too expensive for many families. The state’s provision of free vaccines aims to overcome this barrier.
Dr. Obidike called on community, religious, and political leaders to encourage their communities to participate in the vaccination program and combat vaccine apathy. He underscored that the vaccine is specifically targeted at girls aged nine to 14.
In addition to the vaccination drive, Dr. Obidike announced that free cervical cancer testing and treatment are being offered in the state, an initiative led by Mrs. Nonye Soludo, the governor’s wife.
Dr. Chukwumuanya Igboekwu, the South East Zonal Coordinator of the World Health Organization (WHO), reiterated the vaccine’s safety and effectiveness. He stressed the importance of stakeholder collaboration to raise awareness about the vaccination’s benefits. Dr. Igboekwu also criticized the misuse of important public health initiatives on social media for personal gain, urging a more responsible approach to public health advocacy.
