After over two months, only 525 girls have been vaccinated so far under the 90-day human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign in Ludhiana district.
Launched on March 5, the drive aimed at vaccinating nearly 40,000 girls aged 14, who had entered their 15th year but initial response was poor due to lack of awareness and parental hesitation.
According to the district immunisation officer, Dr Harpreet Singh, 525 girls have been vaccinated so far, with 35 doses administered on Thursday itself, signalling a gradual improvement in participation. The vaccine, given as a single dose, offers nearly 82 per cent protection against cervical cancer.
The quadrivalent vaccine being used covers multiple HPV strains.
Dr Harpreet said efforts were being intensified to expand services and improve accessibility.
“We are working closely with schools and government institutions to spread awareness and motivate parents. The pace is slowly gaining and we hope to cover more ground before the campaign concludes,” he added.
Health officials emphasised that the vaccine was a crucial preventive measure against cervical cancer, which remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in the country. They urged parents to come forward and ensure their daughters were protected.
Why vax matters
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the country and the fourth most common worldwide. Experts stress that timely vaccination and awareness could prevent a large proportion of cases.
“HPV vaccine is safe and highly effective. Parents must come forward to ensure their daughters aged 14–15 years receive this protection during the campaign,” said Dr Ramandeep Kaur, Civil Surgeon, Ludhiana.
