The Osun State Government has flagged-off immunization vaccine against cervical cancer called Human Papilloma Virus Vaccine, HPV, for female children between the ages of 9 and 14.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony in Ede on Wednesday, the Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi, who represented the State Governor, Ademola Adeleke said the State government is always passionate about the well-being of all and sundry in the State and will continue to prioritize their health.
He said; “the introduction of the HPV vaccine into our routine immunization is not just a medical breakthrough, it is a beacon of hope for generations to come. By providing our young girls with this vaccine, we are not merely shielding them from a devastating disease, we are empowering them with the promise of a life unburdened by the fear of cervical cancer”.
“I will like to urge all parents, caregivers and guardians in the state to embrace this opportunity by ensuring that every eligible girl receives the HPV vaccine. The vaccine is safe and effective.
“Concerned bodies in the education sector should also incorporate information about HPV vaccination into their curriculum with a view to fostering understanding and dispelling myths.
Adewusi also used the medium to express gratitude to all supporting partners like WHO, UNICELF, CLINTON HEALTH ACCESS INITIATIVE(CHAI) and NIGERIA RED CROSS SOCIETY,among others, for their commitment towards maintaining good health among human race.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Health, Barr. Jola Akintola gave an account on the disease vulnerability, tendency and admonished that the most successful long-term intervention for lowering the risk of cervical cancer is adolescent vaccination before the onset of sexual activities.
He also encouraged all Osun indigenes and others residing within the State to take their female children, especially those within the age bracket of 9 to 14years, to the nearest facilities for the HPV vaccine uptake.
