HPV Vaccination Campaign Extended in Areas with Low Coverage

The ongoing HPV vaccination campaign has been extended in regions with low vaccination uptake, despite reaching 90% of the targeted population. Health officials have reported that Madhesh Province and Kathmandu Valley are seeing significantly lower coverage, with only 70% and 75% vaccination rates, respectively.

The Ministry of Health and Population has confirmed that the vaccination drive will continue for a few more days in areas struggling to meet targets. Local agencies are working on micro-plans to ensure that all girls within the targeted age groups are vaccinated.

The low vaccination rates in Madhesh Province and Kathmandu Valley are attributed to factors such as a floating population, frequent migration, and large slum areas. Seasonal factors, including school exam preparations, extended winter holidays, and public holidays, have also impacted the campaign’s progress.

Health officials have assured that girls who missed the vaccine during the campaign can still receive their doses at nearby health facilities after the campaign concludes.

HPV,  a major cause of cervical cancer the second most common cancer in developing countries. In Nepal, cervical cancer is a leading cause of death among women, with hundreds diagnosed annually.

The Health Ministry launched the nationwide HPV vaccination campaign on February 4, targeting girls aged 11 to 14. The goal is to vaccinate 1,688,768 girls. Over 18,900 schools across the country were designated as vaccination centers, and 8,200 health facilities also participated. More than 27,000 health workers and 54,000 female community health volunteers were involved in administering the vaccines.

The Global Alliance for Vaccine and Immunisation  provided 1,770,400 vaccine doses and financial support for operational costs. Though exact statistics on cervical cancer cases in Nepal are not available, it is estimated that at least four women die of cervical cancer every day. BP Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital reports treating over 700 women with cervical cancer annually.

Experts believe early detection and vaccination can prevent up to 80% of cervical cancer cases. Following the completion of this nationwide campaign, the government plans to include the HPV vaccine in its routine immunisation schedule.

The World Health Organization endorses HPV vaccination as a key part of efforts to prevent cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases.