Samba, 28 February: The National HPV Vaccination Campaign was successfully launched today at District Hospital Samba under the aegis of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. The programme was formally inaugurated by the Worthy Deputy Commissioner, Samba, Ms. Ayushi Sudan, IAS.
While addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the critical importance of preventive healthcare and adolescent immunization in reducing the burden of cervical cancer. She emphasized that timely vaccination is a vital step toward ensuring a healthier future for young girls and strengthening public health outcomes in the district.
The primary objective of the campaign is to vaccinate girls who have completed 14 years of age but have not yet attained 15 years. The initiative aims to provide protection against Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infections, which are a leading cause of cervical cancer and other related diseases.
The event was organized under the able guidance and leadership of the Chief Medical Officer, Samba, Dr. Vidh Bhatial, and the Medical Superintendent, Dr. Mohinder Kumar. Their concerted efforts ensured meticulous planning and smooth execution of the vaccination drive.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by the District Immunization Officer, Samba, Dr. Kamlesh Kumari; Block Medical Officer, Ramgarh, Dr. Lakhwinder Singh; Block Medical Officer, Samba, Dr. Richa Arora; along with other medical officers, paramedical staff, and frontline healthcare workers.
During the launch event, awareness was generated among beneficiaries and their attendants regarding the importance, safety, and long-term benefits of HPV vaccination in preventing cervical cancer. Adhering strictly to prescribed vaccination protocols and safety guidelines, approximately 22 eligible girls were administered a single dose of Gardasil-4 vaccine. Vaccination certificates were issued to all beneficiaries.
The successful rollout of the National HPV Vaccination Campaign in District Samba reflects the strong commitment of the district administration and the health department toward strengthening preventive healthcare services. The initiative marks a significant milestone in safeguarding the health of adolescent girls and advancing toward the goal of a cervical cancer-free future.
