Nigerian Government Incorporates HPV Vaccine into Routine Immunization Program
The Federal Government of Nigeria introduces the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine into routine immunization, targeting over seven million girls in the largest single round of HPV vaccination in Africa. The vaccine, effective against HPV types responsible for 70% of cervical cancers, is administered to girls aged nine to 14. Cervical cancer is a significant health concern in Nigeria, being the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women aged 15 to 44. In 2020, the country recorded 12,000 new cases and 8,000 deaths from cervical cancer. The vaccination campaign will start with a five-day mass initiative in schools and communities across 16 states and the Federal Capital Territory. This marks a crucial step towards lowering the burden of cervical cancer and saving lives through preventive measures
Landmark Initiative to Combat Cervical Cancer in Nigeria
The Federal Government has introduced the Human Papillomavirus vaccine into the routine immunization system, targeting over seven million girls. This marks the largest number in a single round of HPV vaccination in Africa. Girls aged nine to 14 years will receive a single dose of the vaccine, highly effective against HPV types 16 and 18, responsible for 70% of cervical cancers.
In Nigeria, cervical cancer ranks third among common cancers and second among causes of cancer-related deaths in women aged 15 to 44. In 2020, Nigeria recorded 12,000 new cases and 8,000 deaths from cervical cancer. A five-day mass vaccination campaign in schools and communities will kick off in 16 states and the Federal Capital Territory, followed by the incorporation of the vaccine into routine immunization schedules. The second phase will commence in May 2024 in 21 states.
The vaccine is provided free of charge by the Federal Ministry of Health with support from various partners. Over 35,000 health workers have been trained for the campaign and vaccine delivery, with vaccination sites set up in all 4,163 wards across the 16 states. Mobile vaccination units will ensure accessibility for remote communities.
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Ali Pate, emphasized the preventable nature of cervical cancer and urged parents to protect their children with the vaccine. The WHO Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Walter Mulombo, highlighted the potential to significantly reduce the burden of cervical cancer through vaccination. Nigeria aims to reach over 86 million girls by 2025, averting more than 1.4 million future cervical cancer-related deaths.
