Writing by KHADIJAH ALIYU; Editing by BASIRAT MEMUDU
In it’s quest to prevent cervical cancer in Kano, Lagos, and Kaduna states through it’s 2nd year of the project; Enhancing Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine Awareness and Uptake in Nigeria, a non governmental organization, Pathfinder international has organized a HPV vaccine outreach in Kadawa Ward Ungoggo local government area of Kano State.
Speaking, the ward technical officer Kadawa PHC Ungoggo, Kabiru Usman Abubakar Falgore urged parents to utilize the opportunity by presenting their adolescent girls for the HPV vaccine.
He noted that, parents in Kadawa were sensitized and enlightened by Pathfinder international on the effects of cervical cancer and the importance of HPV vaccine.
The ward technical officer advised the public to seek for clarification in health related issues to avoid misconception about the HPV vaccine, saying that their staff are always ready to provide the necessary support to achieve the desired objectives.
Kabiru commended Pathfinder International for the project on enhancing Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine Awareness and Uptake in Nigeria and appealed for sustainability.
Some of the mothers of young girls who received the HPV vaccine appreciated Pathfinder for the initiative and promised to relate what they have learnt from the outreach to others.
They noted that, as parents, they are confident that the HPV vaccine will prevent their young girls from cervical cancer.
“Today is a memorable day for us as our daughters have received the HPV vaccine”.
The project tagged: Enhancing Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine Awareness and Uptake in Nigeria by Pathfinder International, is in collaboration with the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria, the Nigeria Cancer Society, and government agencies advocate and carry out community outreach, and communication campaign related to cervical cancer prevention.
The campaign seeks to increase uptake of the HPV vaccine, awareness about cervical cancer, and use of self-care practices as recommended by the World Health Organization.
The HPV vaccine is primarily meant for girls ages 9-14, before initiation of sexual activity.
The project supports the vaccination of in-school and out-of-school adolescent girls in Kano, Kaduna and Lagos.
