From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
Barring any change in plan, the Federal Government will, on Tuesday, launch the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccination across the country, thus heralding the introduction of the vaccine into the national immunization programme.
The launch is the high point of years of campaign by health care experts on the need for the introduction of vaccine to curtail the rising cases of cervical cancer among young females.
Expectedly, the vaccine will be administered by the Federal Ministry of Health, through the platform of National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), in some states, perhaps, due to limited number of the vaccine procured.
Unfortunately, Dr. Faisal Shuaib, who started the campaign as the Executive Director, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) won’t be part of the launching ceremony as he was sacked as the NPHCDA boss last Friday by President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, and replaced with the Dr. Muyi Aina.
Dr. Faisal who began the campaign few years ago explained that HPV vaccine will be administered on females between the ages 9 to 15 years, for the purpose of preventing cervical cancer in women, adding that the vaccine is not only a medical breakthrough, but a testament to global commitment in safeguarding the sanctity of life.
Dr. Faisal, at a bi-annual review meeting with religious and traditional leaders in Abuja, in August, solicited the support of the traditional and religious leaders in sensitizing the communities, particularly the targeted population to enable accept the vaccine for their own good.
He reminded the traditional and religious leaders that they are key stakeholders in primary health care services, stressing that by encouraging HPV vaccination within the targeted population, they would become advocates of life and guardians of health. “Your involvement will help to dispel myths and fears, thus fostering a culture of prevention and care. This step aligns with the teachings of compassion, protection and stewardship that your faiths emphasize.
“Consider the impact of our collective endorsement of HPV vaccination. We would obviously safeguard our youth’s future, allowing them to pursue dreams unburdened by health concerns. We uphold our duty to care for the vulnerable, ensuring equitable access to lifesaving interventions,” he said.
Dr. Faisal made reference to the successes achieved on Polio, COVID-19 and other vaccine-preventable diseases through the support and collaborations of the traditional and religious leaders, stressing that Nigeria was able to eradicate polio simply because the involvement of the traditional and religious leaders in the sensitization and advocacy programmes.
He insisted that the traditional and religious leaders possess the power to disseminate crucial information that can influence behavior, dispel myths, and encourage preventive practices, adding that their guidance can inspire individuals and families to seek timely medical attention, embrace healthy lifestyles, and also embrace the concept that good health is a divine gift to be cherished.
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