Mandya: Stressing the importance of preventive healthcare for adolescent girls, deputy commissioner Kumara called for widespread awareness of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination to protect girls from cervical cancer.He stated that the HPV vaccine serves as a vital shield against cervical cancer, particularly for girls aged between 14 and 15 years.During a meeting at the District Office Hall on the progress of the Universal Immunisation Programme, Measles–Rubella elimination efforts, and the district’s HPV vaccination campaign, the DC directed officials to identify all eligible girls across the district within the next month and to encourage them to receive the vaccine.Kumara emphasised that misconceptions and confusion about the vaccine among children and parents must be addressed through proper awareness. He instructed that all primary health centres should provide clear information on the benefits and safety of the HPV vaccine. He further directed primary health medical officers to visit schools and conduct awareness sessions to educate students, parents, and teachers about the importance of vaccination.During the meeting, he reassured that the HPV vaccine is safe, does not cause significant side effects, and plays a crucial role in strengthening immunity against cervical cancer. He also noted that vaccines are currently available at primary health centres, Community Health Centres, District Health Centres, and govt hospitals across the district.The DC instructed health officials to ensure the vaccine is provided free of cost for the next two months and called for full cooperation from the education department to implement the campaign successfully.District health and family welfare officer Dr K Mohan, RCH officer Dr KP Ashwath, district AIDS control officer Dr MN Ashalatha, leprosy elimination officer Dr Somashekar, THO Dr Javaregowda, family welfare officer Dr Bettaswamy, and district health education officer NG Venugopal were present at the meeting.
