By GINNAH MINI
THE National Department of Health (NDoH) has launched a Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination program aimed at protecting girls aged nine to 14 from cervical cancer.
The nationwide initiative is being rolled out initially in the National Capital District (NCD) and Central Province, with vaccinations to be conducted in schools.
The NDoH is working in partnership with the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) and the National Department of Education (NDoE).
Speaking at the launching of the program at New Erima Junior High School, Secretary for Health, Pascoe Kase
assured concerned parents about the vaccine that it is safe and effective and was recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) where more than 500 million doses have already been given in 160 countries around the world.
Mr Kase said that cervical cancer is the second most common cause of cancer deaths among women in Papua New Guinea (PNG).
“We now have a safe and effective vaccine that can protect girls before they are exposed to the virus, and can significantly reduce their risk of developing cervical cancer later in life,” Mr. Kase said.
“We will deliver the HPV vaccine through schools, so that we can reach as many eligible girls as much as possible.”
Mr. Kase noted that the vaccine will be available through health facilities and outreach services to reach young girls who may miss out.
WHO representative to PNG, Dr. Rajendra-Prasad Yadav said that the HPV vaccine was recommended by WHO as it will protect girls from cervical cancer in the future.
Dr. Yadav said that WHO’s aim is to make sure that every girl in PNG should get a chance to be protected against cervical cancer.
The introduction of the HPV vaccine marks a historic milestone in PNG’s efforts to protect girls and women from cervical cancer.
The vaccination program is supported by Gavi- the Vaccine Alliance, UNICEF, WHO, and PNG & Australian Government.