NOIDA: The Post-Graduate Institute of Child Health (Child PGI) in Sector 30 administered the first dose of the HPV vaccine in Noida on Friday as part of the Centre’s initiative to curb cervical cancer.Under the ‘Swastha Nari’ programme, girls aged 14-15 are eligible to get vaccinated free of cost at a dedicated clinic. At Child PGI, the vaccination service will be running daily.“This programme is a significant step towards preventing cervical cancer and reflects our commitment to public health. We aim to ensure that every eligible girl benefits from timely vaccination,” said Dr AK Singh, director of Child PGI.Hospital authorities added that the vaccination was conducted under strict medical protocols, with beneficiaries kept under observation post-administration to record their health and ensure safety.Apart from HPV vaccination, Government Institute of Medical Sciences (GIMS) has also intensified its focus on adult immunisation, issuing a public advisory and launching awareness initiatives to address gaps in vaccine coverage among older populations. The institute highlighted that immunity from childhood vaccines can decline over time, making adults vulnerable to infections.“Adult immunisation is the need of the hour. With increasing life expectancy and a growing elderly population, vaccines are critical to prevent diseases that can otherwise lead to serious health and economic consequences,” said Dr Rakesh Gupta, director of GIMS.“Immunisation services at GIMS are functional throughout the week with immunisation OPD running daily from 9am till 1pm under the supervision of departments of paediatrics and community medicine. The vaccine is provided to all age groups including pregnant women and adults. The vaccine recommended under the National Immunisation Schedule as per Govt of India and Uttar Pradesh is provided free of cost. And all optional vaccines, not in govt programme but essential can be procured through HRF dispensary GIMS at a subsidised cost of 30–65% discount,” said Gupta.The advisory emphasised vaccines such as HPV, influenza, hepatitis A and B, and Tdap as essential components of preventive healthcare for adults.Doctors also pointed to low awareness and access as key challenges in improving vaccination uptake.
