Ganderbal, Apr 04: In a significant step towards safeguarding adolescent health, the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination drive in Ganderbal has successfully covered over 1,000 girls, aiming to prevent cervical cancer among the targeted age group.
District Immunization Officer, Ganderbal, Dr. Bushra Yousuf, termed vaccination as a “blessing to humanity,” highlighting that while immunization programmes have traditionally focused on communicable diseases, the HPV vaccine marks a major shift towards cancer prevention.
She said the nationwide campaign was launched on February 28 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Ajmer, introducing the HPV vaccine for girls aged 14 to 15 years.
“The vaccination is being administered at designated health facilities including primary health centres, sub-district hospitals and district hospitals,” she said, adding that parents must actively participate by bringing their daughters to the nearest centres.
Dr. Bushra explained that cervical cancer, which affects the lower part of the uterus, is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in India after breast cancer. “This vaccine is a preventive measure and has already been administered to millions of females globally,” she noted.
The three-month-long campaign, which will continue till the end of May, is being implemented through a robust healthcare system. Authorities have established cold chain points to ensure vaccine safety and deployed trained medical staff at all designated centres.
To streamline the process, registration is being facilitated through the U-WIN portal, allowing both pre-registration and on-site registration. Consent from guardians is mandatory prior to vaccination, and certificates are issued upon completion.
Dr. Bushra assured that the HPV vaccine is safe, advising that beneficiaries should be well-fed and hydrated before vaccination. “We follow strict protocols, including post-vaccination observation for 30 minutes to ensure there are no adverse effects,” she said.
She also stressed the importance of early diagnosis in reducing cancer mortality. “Cancer is highly treatable if detected early. Women should not hesitate to seek medical advice if they notice any symptoms,” she added.
Health officials are simultaneously conducting awareness campaigns through ASHA workers, multi-purpose health workers, and medical staff under initiatives like adolescent reproductive and sexual health programmes. Regular counselling sessions are being held at Anganwadi centres and schools to educate girls about hygiene, nutrition, and preventive healthcare.
The health department has urged the public to take full advantage of the ongoing drive, emphasizing a holistic approach towards adolescent and women’s health, including proper diet, hygiene, mental well-being, and timely vaccination.
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