The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has launched a human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination
campaign to protect around 2.9 million girls aged 9 to 14 from cervical cancer. The campaign
started on Wednesday in selected districts of the province.

Under this campaign, approximately 1.6 million school-going girls and 1.3 million girls who are
not attending school will receive free HPV vaccines. The vaccination aims to protect them
against HPV infection, which is a major cause of cervical cancer.

The provincial Health Department is running the campaign with the support of the Expanded
Programme on Immunization (EPI) and partner organisations. The main goal is to make sure
that all eligible girls can receive the free vaccine.

Health authorities have asked parents, teachers, religious scholars, and community
representatives to support the campaign. They have encouraged families to get their daughters
vaccinated during the campaign period.

Medical experts say that the HPV vaccine is a safe and effective way to prevent infections that
can lead to cervical cancer. The vaccine protects against the types of human papillomavirus
responsible for most cervical cancer cases.

Experts also explain that girls should receive the vaccine at the recommended age. Getting
vaccinated before possible exposure to the virus provides the best protection.
The campaign will also help raise awareness about cervical cancer and the importance of early
prevention. Health officials are working to address misunderstandings and concerns about HPV
vaccination.

The provincial government has urged communities to cooperate with vaccination teams and
support their work. Special attention is being given to reaching both school-going and
out-of-school girls.

Through this initiative, the KP government aims to protect millions of young girls from HPV
infection and reduce the risk of cervical cancer in the future. The free vaccination facility will also
help more families access important preventive healthcare services.

Source: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Health Department

Fatima Khan