BANDIPORA, FEBRUARY 28: The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination Drive was today launched at District Hospital Bandipora as part of the nationwide campaign aimed at protecting adolescent girls against cervical cancer.
The drive was formally inaugurated by the Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Bandipora, Zafar Husson Shawl, in the presence of Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Bandipora, Dr. Nisar Ahmad Ganaie, Block Medical Officer (BMO) Bandipora, Medical Superintendent District Hospital Bandipora and other health officials, doctors and paramedical staff.
On the occasion, vaccination shots were administered to eligible girls by the health officials, marking the formal commencement of the drive in the district.
Speaking during the programme, the ADC highlighted the significance of the HPV vaccination in preventing cervical cancer and emphasized the importance of ensuring maximum coverage under the campaign. He urged parents and guardians to cooperate with the Health Department and bring eligible girls to nearby health institutions to avail the free vaccination facility.
The CMO Bandipora informed that the vaccination drive targets girls aged 14 years but below 15 years and will be conducted across all health institutions in the district in a phased manner. He further stated that the drive is scheduled to continue for a period of three months to ensure coverage of all eligible beneficiaries.
The Health Department called upon the public to actively participate in the programme to safeguard the health of adolescent girls.
