Punjab HPV Vaccine Drive: Low Turnout Amidst Misinformation

In Punjab, a free Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign, initiated on February 28th and extended by 90 days, has seen very low uptake. In Ludhiana specifically, only approximately 1,600 girls have been vaccinated against a target of nearly 30,000. This sluggish progress is largely attributed by health officials to pervasive misinformation and parental hesitancy, fueled by myths circulating on social media.

The campaign aims to protect 14-15 year old girls, studying in both government and private schools, from cervical cancer. Despite continuous awareness efforts and the extension, the number of beneficiaries remains far below the intended goal. Health officials are intensifying awareness campaigns through various channels, urging parents to consult medical experts and disregard unverified social media claims.

District immunisation officer Dr. Harpreet Singh noted that the actual target for Ludhiana is around 30,000 eligible girls, with approximately 1,600 vaccinated so far. He emphasized that the HPV vaccine is safe and highly effective, offering long-term protection against cervical cancer. The government initiative provides the vaccine free of cost at designated health facilities and educational institutions, encouraging eligible girls to avail this opportunity.