Mysuru: A human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination drive was launched in the district on Tuesday, aiming to prevent cervical cancer among girls. The inaugural event was held on Tuesday at SMT Hospital here.With the slogan ‘Safe Vaccine, Bright Future–Our Girls’ Health is Our Priority,’ the district health and family welfare department initiated the campaign.District health and family welfare officer Dr PC Kumaraswamy inaugurated the campaign. He said the HPV vaccine protects against cervical cancer caused by HPV infection, along with preventing several other serious diseases caused by human papillomavirus.“Protecting the health of girls today will lay the foundation for a safer and healthier future for society,” he added.At present, the vaccine will be administered to girls who have completed 14 years of age and are below 15 years, in accordance with the guidelines of the central govt. The vaccination programme is being organised under the National Universal Immunisation Programme guidelines. HPV vaccination will be administered by doctors and specialist doctors at all govt primary health centres, community health centres, and taluk govt hospitals across the district.Children receiving the vaccine will be registered on the U-WIN digital platform, and vaccination certificates will be issued to beneficiaries through the system. “In this regard, all beneficiaries must carry valid identification along with a mobile number and Aadhaar card,” he said.District RCH officer Dr Mohammed Siraj Ahmed, Mysuru taluk health officer (in-charge) Dr Arun Kumar, administrative medical officer Dr Anuradha, specialist doctors of SMT Hospital, and health staff were present.
