Haryana Rolls Out HPV Vaccination Drive to Protect Adolescent Girls in Gurgaon
In a significant public health initiative, Haryana is set to launch a comprehensive human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination drive across Gurgaon, aiming to immunize approximately 10,000 adolescent girls over the next three months. The campaign, which begins on February 28 from the Civil Hospital in Sector 10, is designed to reduce the risk of cervical cancer, the second most common cancer among women in India.
Campaign Details and Health Benefits
Civil surgeon Dr. Lokveer emphasized the importance of this effort, stating, "The campaign aims to reduce the risk of cervical cancer, which is a major health concern for women in our country." He explained that HPV, particularly types 16 and 18, is a leading cause of cervical cancer, and the vaccine being administered provides protection against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18. This vaccination drive is part of a universal strategy, with Haryana receiving 1.14 lakh HPV vaccine doses and targeting around 3 lakh beneficiaries statewide this year.
Implementation and Digital Tracking
The vaccination will be voluntary and free of cost, specifically targeting girls aged 14 years who have not yet turned 15. To ensure efficiency and transparency, all vaccinations will be recorded digitally on the U-WIN portal. Prior to vaccination, OTP-based consent will be obtained, though written parental consent is also acceptable. Beneficiaries will receive digital vaccination certificates, and finger-marking will be implemented to prevent duplication.
District surveillance officer Jaiprakash Rajliwal provided further insights, noting, "On the launch day, we plan to vaccinate at least 50 eligible girls at the district hospital, but we will cover all eligible beneficiaries present." He added that 3,000 vaccines have been allocated so far, with the rollout starting from Monday at select health centers. After the initial three-month phase, the program will be integrated into routine immunization efforts.
Expansion Plans and Broader Impact
While the campaign kicks off at the district hospital, it will be expanded in phases to include polyclinics and health centers in areas such as Sohna, Pataudi, Farrukhnagar, Borha Kalan, and Ghangrola. This phased approach ensures wider accessibility and coverage across Gurgaon. Health officials highlighted that the state aims to complete initial coverage within 100 days as part of its broader health goals.
This initiative represents a proactive step by Haryana's health department to address a critical women's health issue, leveraging digital tools for tracking and expanding access to preventive care. By focusing on adolescent girls, the drive not only aims to curb cervical cancer rates but also promotes long-term public health benefits through early intervention.
