Pakistan launches national HPV vaccination campaign

Pakistan has initiated a national HPV vaccination campaign to protect adolescent girls against cervical cancer. The program, led by the Federal Directorate for Immunization (FDI), is being conducted in collaboration with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, UNICEF, and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Health officials are urging parents to ensure girls aged 9 to 14 receive the vaccine, describing it as a safe and effective preventive measure. To ensure wide access, the vaccine is being provided free of cost through schools, designated vaccination centers, and mobile outreach teams.

Officials emphasized that vaccination before exposure to the Human Papillomavirus offers the strongest protection. They also highlighted that vaccination should be complemented by regular medical screening and public awareness to reduce the future burden of cervical cancer.