In a significant boost to India’s fight against cervical cancer, WHO head Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for inaugurating a pan-India HPV vaccination program for adolescent girls.
Posting on X, Dr. Tedros highlighted the campaign’s potential to safeguard girls from human papillomavirus-related cervical cancer. He affirmed WHO’s dedication to partnering with nations like India to eliminate this vaccine-preventable disease entirely.
Launched by PM Modi from Ajmer on Saturday, the initiative targets 14-year-olds, addressing a critical health crisis where cervical cancer claims numerous lives annually among Indian women.
The ambitious rollout aims to vaccinate 1.15 crore girls yearly across every state and UT. Free doses are available at primary health centers, community health centers, district hospitals, and medical colleges.
Supervision by trained doctors, backed by expert teams, guarantees safety. Cold chain maintenance and rapid AEFI response protocols are in place at all sites. Informed consent from parents is a prerequisite.
For the initial three months, the campaign operates in high-intensity mode with daily availability. Thereafter, it seamlessly joins regular vaccination days.
This strategic health push exemplifies India’s resolve to prioritize women’s wellness, setting a benchmark for global cervical cancer prevention and reinforcing international collaborations for a cancer-free future.