FG, UNICEF launch HPV vaccination to prevent cervical cancer in Bauchi
The National Health Care Development Agency (NHCDA), in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Bauchi Field Office, introduced the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine as a preventive measure against cervical cancer in the Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi State.
During the launch in Toro, Mrs. Aishatu Labaran, UNICEF’s Local Government Facilitator, highlighted that the vaccination drive is primarily targeting girls aged nine to fourteen.
UNICEF had conducted awareness campaigns, engaging religious and traditional leaders, educators, and over 100 local schools in the area, emphasizing the significance of the vaccine and the risks associated with cervical cancer.
This proactive approach has resulted in a high level of acceptance for the vaccination campaign.
The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact and can infect anyone who is sexually active.
HPV is a leading cause of cervical cancer, as well as other cancers such as vulva, vagina, penis, or anus. Providing protection for young girls before they are exposed to the virus can significantly reduce the incidence of this devastating disease.
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The three-week vaccination initiative aims to reach 48,000 girls and has already garnered substantial acceptance among the local population.
Mrs. Labaran noted that unlike previous vaccination campaigns, such as polio, there has been relatively less misinformation and non-compliance regarding the HPV vaccination.
Mrs. Labaran further explained that the vaccination program will eventually become part of routine immunization, and she urged local government authorities in the state to prioritize community engagement to raise awareness.
Malami Danjuma, the Health Education Officer in Toro Local Government Area, reported that over 13,000 girls had been vaccinated within the first two days of the HPV vaccination campaign across the region.
This remarkable turnout can be attributed to the extensive promotional efforts carried out by members of the Local Government Area Volunteer Community Mobilisers (VCM), as well as the “mama2mama” program, and other individuals involved in pre-rollout activities.
Mr. Danjuma emphasized the crucial role of this vaccination in preventing cervical cancer among women of reproductive age.
He commended UNICEF and other donor agencies for their contribution, including the vaccine and logistical support, which has facilitated the success of the campaign.
In her remarks, Rahmatu Ishiaku, the Director of Primary Healthcare in Toro Local Government Area, expressed gratitude to the Federal Government, UNICEF, and other donor agencies for making this life-saving initiative a reality.
She noted that people in the community are not only receptive to the vaccine but are actively seeking it out. If the vaccine is not readily available to them, they are proactively making the effort to access vaccination centers.
NAN