HPV Vaccination Drive Faces Early Setback in Rawalpindi

Rawalpindi, September 17, 2025 — A government-led campaign to vaccinate schoolgirls against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a major cause of cervical cancer, has encountered resistance in Rawalpindi just days after its launch.

The drive, launched on September 15 by the District Health Authority (DHA) in collaboration with UNICEF, aims to immunise over 387,000 girls aged 9 to 14 across the district. However, on the first day of the campaign, more than 4,800 families refused to allow their daughters to be vaccinated.

Out of the total target, 24,179 girls were vaccinated on day one. The highest number of vaccinations was recorded in Rawalpindi City, where 5,370 girls received the vaccine. Despite these numbers, health officials say the overall response has been disappointing.

The resistance has largely been attributed to a lack of awareness and misconceptions surrounding the vaccine. Officials noted that many schools, particularly private institutions, have not fully cooperated with the campaign. In addition, parental consent is required before administering the vaccine, and many parents have opted out.

Dr. Ihsan Ghani, Chief Executive of the DHA, urged families to reconsider, emphasizing that the vaccine is safe and effective, with only mild side effects similar to those of other routine immunisations. He stressed that the HPV vaccine offers vital protection against cervical cancer, which claims the lives of approximately 20 women every day in Pakistan.

He called on parents to take advantage of this opportunity, reminding them that early vaccination could save lives.

The campaign will continue until September 27, as officials work to raise awareness and improve community engagement.

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