HPV VACCINE ROLLOUT BEGINS IN PNG

BY RAYLEEN WANJIMAN

HALTH Secretary Pasco Kase says the introduction of the Human Papillomavirus-(HPV) vaccine is a major step towards protecting girls and women in Papua New Guinea from cervical cancer.

Speaking at the launch of first HPV vaccine yesterday, Mr Kase said cervical cancer is the second most common cause of cancer and death among women in PNG.

The HPV vaccine will be provided free of charge to girls aged 9 to 14.

It will be delivered through schools, health facilities and outreach programs to ensure eligible girls can access the vaccine, whether they are attending school or not.

Mr Kase assured parents that the HPV vaccine is safe and effective and is recommended by the World Health Organization.

He said more than 500 million doses of the vaccine have already been administered in 160 countries.

The rollout will begin in the National Capital District and Central Province, before gradually expanding to other provinces.