FG Incorporates HPV Vaccine into Nigeria's Immunization Schedule

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced its plans to incorporate the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine into the country’s immunization schedule.

The Live News reports that Dr. Faisal Shuaib, the Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, disclosed this during a meeting with northern traditional leaders in Abuja. The introduction of the HPV vaccine aims to combat the transmission of HPV, a prevalent infection known to cause cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers.

Dr. Shuaib emphasized that including the HPV vaccine in the immunization schedule will contribute to alleviating the strain on the healthcare system, sparing individuals from unnecessary suffering, and ultimately saving lives.

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He said, “The Federal Government, in collaboration with our development partners, will be introducing the Human Papilloma Virus vaccine into the immunization schedule. This strategic move underscores our commitment to preventive healthcare and the empowerment of our population, particularly the younger generation, to lead healthier lives. We recognize the tremendous value of prevention in reducing the burden on our healthcare system, minimizing individual suffering, and ultimately preserving lives.”

He further highlighted that introducing HPV vaccines aligns with broader goals of promoting equity and reducing health disparities. By ensuring equal access to these vaccines for all, regardless of socioeconomic status or geographical location, the government aims to bridge the gap and protect vulnerable populations disproportionately affected by HPV-related diseases.

Dr. Shuaib added, “Moreover, the introduction of HPV vaccines aligns with our broader goals of promoting equity and reducing health disparities. By ensuring access to these vaccines for all, regardless of socioeconomic status or geographical location, we can bridge the gap and protect vulnerable populations who are disproportionately affected by HPV-related diseases.”

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To effectively implement the HPV vaccination campaign, the support of traditional leaders is crucial in overcoming vaccine hesitancy, particularly in the northern region of the country. Dr. Shuaib stressed the need for a comprehensive approach, including raising awareness, dispelling myths, and addressing vaccine hesitancy through education and communication.

He stated, “However, the successful implementation of HPV vaccination requires a comprehensive approach. We must work together to raise awareness, dispel myths, and address vaccine hesitancy. Education inclusive of communication is key to empowering our communities with accurate information about the safety, efficacy, and importance of HPV vaccination.”

During the meeting, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, expressed concerns about the health conditions of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in six northern states, namely Kebbi, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kaduna, Niger, and Katsina. He urged the traditional leaders in the affected states to collaborate with their respective state governors to prevent disease outbreaks in IDP camps.

The Sultan of Sokoto stated, “We have challenges ahead of us. We have about six states in the north with a high number of Internally Displaced Persons. We have tried to reach them, but we could not. We must work with the governors in these states so that we can reach them.

“If there is any outbreak of an epidemic, one person is enough to pass it around to the whole population in the IDP. This is a serious concern.”