NCD cervical cancer vaccination program to be launched this month

The National Department of Health (NDoH) is ready to launch the National Capital District cervical cancer vaccination program on March 23.

The pilot program will be officially launched by Prime Minister Peter O’Neill and will be rolled out in schools in NCD.

The program is introduced to PNG by NDoH in partnership with Rotary Club of Boroko, Department of Education, WHO, UNICEF, Cancer Foundation PNG, and other partners.

A total of 56 000 doses of vaccine, funded by the Rotary Club, have arrived in the country, enough to vaccinate 26 000 girls.

All girls aged 9-14 years attending grade 3-6 at all public and private schools in NCD will be offered two doses of the vaccine free of charge.

Vaccinations will be offered at all 63 primary schools in NCD.

The total cost of the program is K1.4m and the first dose will be provided in April and the second dose in October.

National coordinator HPV vaccination program, Dr Edward Waramin said it is important for girls to receive both doses of the vaccine for best protection.

Dr Waramin highlighted that the vaccine is very safe and has been fully endorsed by WHO and NDoH.

Author: 
Quintina Naime