Keta: The Keta Municipal Health Directorate in the Volta Region has commenced the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination exercise targeting girls aged 9 to 14 years within the area. The initiative aims to protect young girls against cervical cancer and is scheduled to run from October 7 to October 11.
According to Ghana News Agency, Madam Margaret Dovlo, Keta Municipal Public Health Nurse, highlighted the significance of the exercise in providing full protection against cervical cancer, a major health concern for women. She stated, “The exercise is beginning today, October 7, through to October 11, and we expect to vaccinate not less than 500 girls across the municipality.”
Madam Dovlo emphasized the initiative’s objective to prevent cervical cancer and reduce its incidence among vulnerable girls. She reassured that the HPV vaccine is safe and does not affect girls’ future fertility, contrary to some speculations. Instead, it offers maximum protection against cervical cancer, which poses a significant threat to their future.
Statistics reveal the urgent need for vaccination, with more than 20 women reportedly seeking treatment daily at Bator Hospital, where specialists are available. Trained healthcare workers will visit schools and communities to administer the vaccine to girls aged 9-14 from 0800 to 1400 daily. Madam Dovlo urged parents, teachers, and stakeholders to ensure eligible girls receive the free vaccine within the stipulated period.
The health directorate plans to make the vaccine a routine exercise, incorporating it into activities for girls during weighing sessions to ensure those who turn 9-14 years receive the dosage before reaching adolescence. Madam Dovlo noted the importance of administering the HPV vaccine before exposure to the virus to prevent cervical cancer, a silent killer.
The HPV vaccine prevents infections and provides protection against cervical cancer later in life. It is administered as an injection, with one dose offering maximum protection against HPV infections.