NICRAT INCORPORATES HPV VACCINATION INTO SCH HEALTH PROGRAMME

REPORTER: UGONNA AGU

Parents and caregivers have been advised to vaccinate their daughters against Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).

The Imo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Prosper Oyahaya, gave the advice during the sensitization and official commencement of the incorporation of the HPV vaccination into the school health programme in Nigeria.

Dr. Oyahaya noted that extensive research and global experiences have demonstrated the effectiveness of HPV vaccine in preventing any HPV related diseases.

The Health Commissioner said unlike other cancers, cervical cancer could be prevented by administering the HPV vaccine on girls between the ages of 9 and 14.

Dr. Oyahaya explained that the programme was not just about implementation of the vaccine, but building a healthier future for the children.

It also involves empowering them with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health as well as giving them the opportunity to reach their full potential.

“The incorporation of the Human Papilloma Virus into the school health program marks a pivotal moment on our collective commitment to preventive health care
We are taking decisive action to protect our children from a virus that can lead to devastating health consequences later in life,” Dr. Oyahaya stated.

The Senior Scientific Officer of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), Dr. Musa Mutiu, who represented the Director General of the institution, Professor Usman Malami, said the event was necessary, considering the devastating effects of HPV in the life of a woman.

Dr. Mutiu announced that the school vaccination sensitization would cover all secondary schools in the six geopolitical zones of the country.

“Today’s program is a testament to our commitment to deliver quality health care services to Nigeria, as an agency, NICRAT will continue to do everything humanly possible including training and retraining of all categories of healthcare workers, including the vaccination program to prevent our people from all forms of cancer related diseases,” he remarked.

Earlier, the state Coordinating National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Mrs. Maria Ibeleme-Onu, while delivering a lecture on the introduction and overview of HPV diseases, noted that HPV was the most common viral infection of the reproductive track.

Mrs. Ibeleme-Onu pointed out that HPV causes 95% cases of cervical cancer worldwide amongst women between 15-49 years.

She said the virus could be got through multiple sexual partners, high sexual activities before 18 years, tobacco smoking, weak immune system and family history.

“HPV is an STI infection, most infections are asymptomatic, they clear in three months without any intervention. With about 90% clearing, within two years.

“Although a small proportion may persist to precancerous levels and subsequently, cervical cancer.” Dr. Ibeleme-Onu said.

She debunked claims that HPV causes infertility, paralysis and is a way of reducing population.

The State Coordinator said that the vaccination was free and available at healthcare centres in the state.

The programme was attended by representatives from ministries and health agencies, parents, teachers and students from different schools.

EDITED BY CHUKWUBUIKE MADU