HPV vaccination campaign launched in Zunheboto

The District Health Society, Zunheboto, on March 2 launched the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign against cervical cancer at the Conference Hall of District Hospital, Zunheboto. Deputy Commissioner, Zunheboto, Dharam Raj, graced the programme as guest of honour, along with district health officials, medical officers and staff.
In his address, the DC urged parents and guardians to avail the opportunity and ensure that eligible beneficiaries receive the vaccine. He cautioned against misinformation circulating on social media, encouraging the public to cross-check facts and rely on authentic information provided by health authorities.
Delivering the keynote address, DPO (UIP/RCH), Dr. Heto Swu, highlighted that the HPV vaccination programme has been launched nationwide as a major preventive initiative to combat cervical cancer, commonly referred to as cancer of the womb (cervix). He noted that cervical cancer is the second most common cancer affecting women in India, with 99.7% of cases caused by HPV infection.
Dr. Swu clarified that the HPV vaccine is not newly developed, having been available in India since 2008 and incorporated into immunization programmes in over 160 countries worldwide. He emphasized that the primary objective is to reduce mortality due to cervical cancer and safeguard women’s health through preventive immunization.
The district will undertake a three-month vaccination campaign covering all health units equipped with Ice Lined Refrigerators (ILR), including 11 Cold Chain Points (CCP) across Zunheboto. The target group is adolescent girls aged 14–15 years.
The programme was chaired by DPM (NHM), Rosemary Vitoli.