Aiming at protecting girls from cervical cancer, HPV vaccination commences across the State

ITANAGAR, Mar 10: In a bid to vaccinate girls aged 14–15 years to protect them from cervical cancer through the government-provided HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccine, which is now available free of cost, the launch of the HPV vaccination campaign was done across the State today.

LIKABALI: The HPV vaccination campaign was successfully launched today at Kardu Taipodia General Hospital under the Health Department, Lower Siang district.

The programme was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Gobi Nyicyor as chief guest, while Marte Koyu attended as guest of honour. The event was also attended by Dr. Nyage Geyi, District Medical Officer, and Dr Tabi Nguba, along with other doctors, health staff, and beneficiaries.

Addressing the gathering, the DC encouraged parents and guardians to ensure that all girls aged 14 years take the HPV vaccine, which is an important step in protecting young girls from serious health risks in the future. He also urged the public not to believe in rumours or misinformation circulating on social media regarding the vaccine and to rely on verified information from Health authorities.

Meanwhile, the District Administration and the Health Department have appealed to all parents and guardians to cooperate with the campaign and ensure that eligible girls avail the benefits of the vaccination programme for a healthier future. 

YUPIA: The district-wide HPV vaccination campaign was formally launched today at the Health and Wellness Centre, Chiputa, by Gonu Boje Yab, ZPM II Doimukh Zilla Parishad.

The programme was attended by GPC Yab Hari Kamdir, Medical Officer In-Charge Dr Bomar Kamdak, District Medical Officer (DMO) Dr R Rina Ronya, District Reproductive and Child Health Officer (DRCHO) Dr Tomar Kamki, and ASHA workers.

Speaking on the occasion, the DRCHO stated that the vaccine will be administered at all Primary Health Centres (PHCs) from 9 am to 2 pm over the next three months to ensure maximum coverage. He noted that the HPV vaccine, which was earlier available only through private healthcare providers, is now being provided free by the government to reach a larger number of beneficiaries.

Addressing the gathering, the ZPM urged the public not to fear the vaccine and emphasized its importance for the health and well-being of the girl child. She encouraged parents and guardians to bring their daughters for vaccination, stating that early prevention is the key to protecting young girls from cervical cancer.

The programme concluded with the distribution of certificates to the girls who received the vaccination, marking a significant step towards strengthening preventive healthcare in the district.

AALO: West Siang Deputy Commissioner Mindo Loyi officially launched the HPV vaccination programme at the DC’s conference hall here today during the meeting of the District Task Force on Immunization (DTFI) along with an orientation programme on National De-Worming Day (NDD).

Chairing the DTFI meeting, the DC emphasized that public awareness programmes are essential, and called for involvement of PRI leaders and village GBs to ensure the success of the campaign. He stated that the HPV vaccine is very important for girl child and advised all health workers and Medical Officers-in-Charge of PHCs and CHCs to follow the guidelines properly.

The DC also urged the Health Department to complete the immunization drive within the stipulated time.

DRCHO Dr Jomnya Ado informed that the HPV vaccination programme has been launched across the State today. He stated that the HPV vaccine protects against human papillomavirus infections that can cause cervical and other related cancers. The vaccination campaign will continue for three months and will be conducted in all PHCs and CHCs across West Siang district.

He further instructed all health workers and Medical Officers-in-charge of West Siang district to strictly adhere to the government guidelines while implementing the programme. 

Dr Ado also highlighted the importance of the NDD programme.

District Medical Officer Dr Linya Lollen highlighted the importance of Routine Immunization in protecting children and communities from preventable diseases.

Dr K Ninu, MO in-charge of Kamba CHC, presented the best practices in immunization, highlighting that Kamba CHC has been performing exceptionally well in routine vaccination programmes.

The meeting was attended by SMOs, MOs, ASHAs, Dy Director ICDS, DDSE, and health workers of West Siang district. (DIPROs)