…Urged Parent to give consent for HPV Vaccine
UNICEF has reported that after breast cancer, cervical cancer is the second most common and leading cause of deaths among women in Nigeria, particularly among adolescents and women aged 15 to 44.
Over 70% of cervical cancer cases are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), which is transmitted sexually.
Speaking during a media dialogue in Lagos, Mohammed Okorie from UNICEF urged parents to allow their daughters aged 9-14 to receive the HPV vaccine.
According to him, “in Nigeria, many cases are reported annually. To protect girls from cervical cancer later in life, it’s important they get the HPV vaccine between ages 9 and 15, before becoming sexually active.”
He mentioned that 16 states, including Lagos, have started the first phase of vaccination, with 21 more states beginning on May 27, 2024.
UNICEF, in partnership with state governments, launched the first round of the HPV vaccination campaign in public primary healthcare centres and schools in October 2023.
Dr. Adetola Akingbemi from the Lagos State Primary Healthcare Board stated the campaign targets girls aged nine and above, vaccinating them with a single, safe, and effective dose of the HPV vaccine.
UNICEF Social and Behaviour Change Specialist, Mrs Aderonke Akinola Akinwole, emphasized the importance of ensuring every eligible girl has access to this life-saving vaccine, regardless of their circumstances.
“We are creating a narrative of hope and a healthier Nigeria,” she said.
She called on the media to dispel myths and misconceptions about the HPV vaccine, such as infertility.
Mrs. Akinwole encouraged collaborative efforts by the media and other stakeholders to safeguard girls from cervical cancer.
She added that girls who missed the campaign or are not yet nine years old would receive their catch-up doses later.
she urged parents and guardians who have not yet consented to vaccinate their young girls against cervical cancer with the HPV vaccine to do so.
A healthcare worker at the Eti-Osa Primary Healthcare Centre mentioned that vaccine uptake is low due to myths and misconceptions, but they will continue to educate the public about the vaccine’s importance.
“It doesn’t harm the girl; it prevents HPV,” she said.
