Human Papilloma Virus Vaccine: SMC Develops Work Plan for Distribution

The Bayelsa State Social Mobilization Committee, SMC has developed strategies and work plan towards the distribution of the Human Papilloma Virus Vaccine, HPVV.

State Health Executives, UNICEF, NGO’s and Religious Leaders have been urged to collaborate and sensitize their church members and the general public on the HPV vaccine that is set to commence very soon in most parts of the country including Bayelsa State.

State Health Executive, Dr Ogbointuwei Christopher in a meeting with stakeholders at the State Emergency Routine Immunization Conference Hall, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital appealed to them to use their various platforms to reach out to the public on the need for the vaccination.

Dr Christopher explained that their should be a communication training for those that will go for the sensitization on the benefits and reasons why the vaccine should be taken particularly for young girls.

He added that HPV vaccine protect against certain types of Cancers, including cervical cancer caused by the Human Papilloma virus which is an infectious disease that can harm the cervix.

“Aside from receiving the HPV vaccine,other preventive measures include early detection and regular screening with early treatment”

He stressed that any negative reaction during the vaccination from communities should be put in properly documented by the vaccinators inorder to strategically manage the information and sensitization there.

He noted that health officials would be visiting schools, churches, mosques and other public places including house to house to give the vaccine to female children between the ages of 9 to 14 years.

The CEO, Eunice Nnachi Women Advocacy Foundation, ENWAF, Lady Eunice Nnachi pointed out that importance of the vaccine cannot be overemphasized hence she urged parents, caregivers and other relevant stakeholders to give the vaccinators access to their children.