The Lagos State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has announced the rollout of a free Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination program for girls aged 9 to 14.
This program, which runs from October to December 2024, aims to protect young girls against cervical cancer, a disease predominantly caused by the HPV virus.
The announcement was made during a media orientation session held on Monday, 14th October 2024, at the Department of Mass Orientation (DMO) in Alausa, Ikeja.
The session aimed to inform both community media practitioners and representatives from print, online, and mainstream media about the upcoming Non-Polio Supplemental Immunization Activities (SIA) while emphasizing the integration of the Yellow Fever vaccine into routine immunization efforts.
Mr. Adesegun Ogundeji, the Director of Public Affairs for the Lagos State Ministry of Information and Strategy, highlighted the critical role of the media in effectively disseminating information about these immunization programs.
He stressed the importance of media support in ensuring that parents, particularly those in hard-to-reach areas, are well-informed about the availability of free vaccines.
“This initiative is not just about providing vaccines; it’s about ensuring that all eligible girls have access to this life-saving intervention,” Ogundeji stated. “We rely on the media to help us communicate this message effectively.”
The integration of the Yellow Fever vaccine with other immunization activities is part of a broader strategy to prevent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases.
Ogundeji noted that combining Yellow Fever vaccinations with other health interventions would maximize coverage and enhance public health across Lagos State.
In conjunction with the HPV vaccination program, the government has ensured that the HPV vaccine is now fully integrated into Lagos State’s routine immunization schedule.
Traditionally, routine immunization begins at birth and continues until 15 months of age. The inclusion of the HPV vaccine represents a significant expansion of this program, specifically targeting girls aged 9.
A special provision allows girls aged 9-14 to receive the vaccine free of charge during this window period.
Unlike temporary campaigns, this vaccination initiative will be a permanent part of the state’s immunization regimen.
Beginning in 2025, only girls aged 9 will be eligible for the HPV vaccine as part of routine immunization. Health authorities are urging parents to ensure their daughters aged 9-14 receive the vaccine before the program’s end in December.
Health officials have reassured the public about the safety and long-term efficacy of the HPV vaccine in Nigeria. The state’s commitment to reducing cervical cancer rates underscores the importance of this initiative.
The government is encouraging parents and guardians to spread awareness and ensure that no eligible girl misses this critical opportunity for protection.
Parents who missed school-based vaccination programs can take their daughters to any public health centre to receive the HPV vaccine at no cost.
The government is also calling on media outlets to assist in raising awareness about the availability of the vaccine and the importance of timely vaccination for eligible girls.
The free HPV vaccination program illustrates Lagos State’s proactive approach to safeguarding the health of its young population, with the ultimate goal of reducing preventable diseases like cervical cancer.
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