Union government to soon launch HPV vaccination programme for girls aged 14

Official sources said that the quadrivalent HPV vaccine protects against HPV types 16 and 18, which cause cervical cancer, as well as types 6 and 11.

New Delhi: Official sources said that the the Union government will soon be launching a nationwide HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccination programme which will target girls aged 14.

A shot of Gardasil will be injected free of cost. Sources said that the quadrivalent HPV vaccine protects against HPV types 16 and 18, which cause cervical cancer, as well as types 6 and 11.

An official source said, "Strong global and Indian scientific evidence confirms that a single dose provides robust and durable protection when administered to girls in the recommended age group."

The source also said, "Vaccination under the national programme will be voluntary and free of cost, ensuring equitable access across socio-economic groups."

"The launch of the nationwide HPV vaccination demonstrates the government's delivery oriented governance, where scientific evidence, policy decisions, and implementation readiness converge to produce measurable public health impact."

According to the source, "Parents and guardians across the country should come forward and ensure that their 14-year-old daughters are vaccinated against HPV once the programme is rolled out."

(With PTI inputs)