Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Vaccine Campaign was launched at District Hospital Dimapur by Chief Medical Officer, Dr T Yetovi Tuccu on Monday.
In his address, Dr Yetovi stated that cervical cancer is a significant public health concern in our country as well as globally. It is caused by Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and it is the only cancer which can be prevented by a vaccine. He further stated that HPV vaccination programme had started globally since 2006, and in India this vaccine was available in private health facilities since 2008.
He informed that out of 194 countries in the world; 160 countries have introduced HPV vaccine in their vaccination programme and in South-East Asia, out of 11 countries, 9 countries had already introduced HPV Vaccination except India and Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.
Through this HPV Vaccine Campaign, the Government of India is now ensuring HPV Vaccine is available free of cost to all girls aged 14 who have not yet celebrated their 15th birthday in the country. The campaign will follow Single Dose HPV Vaccination schedule and will last for three months.
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In Dimapur District, the vaccine would be available in nine Cold Chain Points viz. District Hospital Dimapur, Burma Camp U-PHC, Duncan U-PHC, Chumukedima PHC, Dhansiripar CHC, Medziphema CHC, Niuland CHC, Singrijan PHC, and Kuhuboto PHC.
Dr. Yetovi also cautioned the public to be wary of ‘Fake News’ about the vaccines spreading and to contact the Office of Chief Medical Officer for any queries.
Dr. Rongsennungla, DPO (RCH/UIP) while giving the vote of thanks stated that this campaign was a perfect opportunity for girls aged 14 years and also for the country to become a healthy nation.
The programme was chaired by Nokrenkoba, UWIN Co-ordinator, Project Delivery, UNDP, and welcome speech was delivered by Dr. George Thira, Medical Superintendent, DH Dimapur. Invocation prayer was said by Rev Yhunlo Thong, Chaplain, DH Chapel. Four girls were administered with HPV vaccine during the launching programme.
