TEZU, Mar 11: The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination commenced today at the conference hall of Zonal General Hospital, Tezu, marking the beginning of a significant public health initiative aimed at preventing cervical cancer among adolescent girls in Lohit district.
The programme was attended by SDO Tezu Soitailum Bellai, District Reproductive and Child Health Officer (DRCHO) Lohit Dr S Towang, District Medical Officer (DMO) Lohit Dr C L Manchey, Dr T Koyu, Dr Kenbi Padu (Gynecologist), ZPMs Gulabso Bellai (Sunpura) & Baplalum Chiba (Tezu), ASHA workers, and other stakeholders from the Health department.
The DRCHO, highlighting the importance of the HPV vaccination campaign, stated that nearly 85–95 percent of cervical cancer cases are caused by infection from the HPV, and vaccination remains one of the most effective preventive measures. He informed that the campaign will be conducted over a period of 90 days, during which a single dose of the Gardasil-4 vaccine will be administered to girl children aged 14 years.
He also emphasized the importance of countering rumours and misinformation during the campaign period, noting that such misconceptions could affect participation of beneficiaries. Registration for vaccination can be done through both offline and online modes, with the online registration available through the U-WIN portal.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Padu highlighted that cervical cancer is the second most common health concern among women in India. She noted that although the disease can be treated if detected early, lack of awareness and delayed diagnosis often lead to advanced stages, making treatment more difficult. She urged women to remain vigilant about early symptoms and seek timely medical consultation, while emphasizing that vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure.
Addressing the gathering, the SDO stated that the government is making concerted efforts to ensure that the benefits of such health initiatives reach the last mile. He pointed out that the HPV vaccine is costly in private healthcare facilities but under this campaign the government will provide it free of cost to 14-year-old girl children. He urged all stakeholders, including PRI members, ASHA workers and health officials, to actively participate and ensure successful implementation of the campaign, assuring full support from the district administration.
ZPM Bellai appreciated the dedication of ASHA workers and described them as the backbone of grassroots healthcare services. He expressed confidence that their efforts would play a crucial role in the success of the HPV vaccination campaign and assured them of his support.
The DMO advised ASHA workers and health personnel to carefully verify the age of beneficiaries and ensure that proper parental consent is obtained before administering the vaccine.
ZPM Chiba emphasized the need for community awareness and sensitization regarding the HPV vaccination campaign. He also encouraged health workers to deliver their services with dedication during the campaign and assured his continued support.
Dr Achu Chena, MO (RI), ZGH (Tezu), also spoke. (DIPRO)