HPV Vaccination Drive to Target Over 16,000 Adolescent Girls in Kavrepalanchowk

More than 16,000 adolescent girls in Kavrepalanchowk district are set to receive the HPV vaccine as part of a nationwide campaign to prevent cervical cancer.

The vaccination drive, scheduled to run from February 4 to February 18, will target girls aged 10 to 14, primarily those studying in Grades 6 to 10. According to the District Health Office, the campaign will administer a single-dose HPV vaccine, certified by the World Health Organization, to protect against the virus that is the leading cause of cervical cancer.

Preparations for the campaign have been completed, stated District Health Office Chief Ragishree Kashapati Shrestha. Vaccination centers will be established in 252 community schools, 84 private schools, and local healthcare facilities to ensure wide coverage. Efforts will also be made to reach girls outside the formal education system.

Cervical cancer remains a significant health concern in Nepal, with approximately 2,200 new cases detected annually and 1,300 deaths attributed to the disease. The HPV vaccination campaign is part of broader efforts to reduce these numbers and safeguard the health of future generations.