In a first, Himachal government to roll out cervical cancer vaccination drive

For the first time, the state government is launching a special vaccination campaign against cervical cancer, which is the most common form of cancer among women after breast cancer, in Shimla district.

A meeting was held under the chairmanship of Shimla Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap in this regard here today. A door-to-door survey will be conducted through ASHA workers from March 1 to identify eligible girls.

The vaccine will be administered at vaccination sites (government hospitals). Five such sites have been identified in Shimla town and 39 across the district. HPV vaccination will be conducted on selected Sundays. All parents have been requested to provide their consent and ensure that eligible girls are vaccinated for a healthy and prosperous life.

It was told in the meeting that a single dose of 0.5 ml of US vaccine Gardasil will be administered in the upper part of the left arm. In India, a single dose of the vaccine can cost up to Rs 10,000 in the private sector. However, under campaign the vaccine will is available free of cost.

Cervical cancer is a cancer of the cervix (lower part of the uterus), primarily caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). It is more common in women aged 30-50 is the fourth most common cancer in women globally and the second most common in India.

The nationwide vaccination campaign is proposed to begin on March 29, with vaccinations taking place every Sunday. The drive will last for three months. According to guidelines from the Union Ministry of Health, girls who have completed 14 years of age but have not yet completed 15 years of age are eligible for vaccination. The campaign will cover all eligible girls, including migrant and destitute girls. Single dose provides long-term protection.