THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Daltonganj, June 3: The anti-cervical cancer vaccination programme, medically known as the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination drive, has been put on temporary hold across Jharkhand since May 26 following heatwave conditions in the state.
In a communication dated May 26, the Mission Director of the National Health Mission (NHM) informed all district civil surgeons about the temporary suspension of the vaccination programme.
Focus on Awareness During Suspension
While the vaccination drive remains suspended, district health authorities have been directed to intensify awareness campaigns among parents of adolescent girls aged 14 years and below 15 years, the target group for the vaccine.
Officials said the overall performance of the HPV vaccination programme in Jharkhand has been disappointing, with coverage remaining below 3%.
The vaccine is being administered free of cost and requires only a single dose.
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Palamu Records Low Uptake
Palamu District Reproductive and Child Health Officer (DRCHO) Dr S.K. Ravi said the district received 11,000 doses of the HPV vaccine from the state NHM.
“The state NHM gave us 11,000 doses of this HPV vaccine. Till the temporary hold on enforced on and from May 26, the number of the vaccinated eligible girls is a bare 157,” he said.
Dr Ravi added that the remaining vaccine doses are being preserved carefully to prevent wastage.
Urban Response Raises Concern
Expressing concern over the low response in urban areas, Dr Ravi said:
“Can anyone expect just 2 HPV vaccinations in Daltonganj urban areas? Are urban people so unaware of it? No. They just don’t prepare their daughters to get this life-saving vaccine at the right time and at the right age.”
He noted that Lesliganj Community Health Centre recorded the highest number of vaccinations in the district with 45 beneficiaries, followed by Chainpur Community Health Centre with 37 vaccinations.
Dr Ravi urged parents to encourage eligible girls to receive the vaccine once the programme resumes.
