Nagercoil Corporation Expands Free HPV Vaccination for Girls Aged 14-15 as 496 Receive Shots
The Nagercoil Corporation has stepped up its free Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination drive for girls aged 14 to 15 years, as part of its preventive healthcare measures aimed at reducing the risk of cervical cancer. According to corporation officials, 496 girls have been vaccinated so far at the Urban Primary Health Centres (UPHCs) functioning under its limits.
The HPV vaccine is administered to protect against infection by certain strains of the human papillomavirus, which are linked to the development of cervical cancer. Health authorities recommend vaccination at an early age, before exposure to the virus, for maximum benefit.
To promote awareness of the vaccine among parents and children, the corporation recently held a coordination meeting with officials from the health and education departments. The meeting focused on ensuring effective implementation of the programme across corporation limits, and emphasised the importance of interdepartmental coordination, creating awareness among students and parents, and encouraging eligible beneficiaries to come forward for vaccination.
In addition, awareness sessions were conducted for students on the importance, safety and benefits of the HPV vaccine. Officials said these sessions also addressed misconceptions surrounding the vaccine and highlighted the need for parental cooperation.
The vaccination is currently being administered at all six UPHCs functioning under the Nagercoil Corporation.
A senior official from the corporation's health department said 496 girls had received the vaccine since the programme was launched this year, and that the numbers had risen in recent weeks following the continuous awareness sessions and interdepartmental meetings.
Nagercoil Corporation Commissioner R. Ishwarya has appealed to parents and guardians of girls aged 14 to 15 years to make use of the vaccination facilities available at the UPHCs and to extend their full support to the initiative.
The drive is part of a wider public health effort to improve vaccination coverage against HPV. Officials have maintained that greater participation by families will help the programme reach its intended beneficiaries. Parents seeking details on eligibility, timing of doses or the centres available may contact the UPHCs operating under the corporation.
