Pakistan launched a human papillomavirus vaccination campaign to protect 13 million girls aged 9-14 from cervical cancer, joining over 150 countries offering the life-saving vaccine, according to a press-release by Gavi.
The Government of Pakistan’s Federal Directorate for Immunization partnered with Gavi, UNICEF, and WHO to roll out the campaign across Punjab, Sindh, Pakistan-Administered Kashmir, and Islamabad Capital Territory in the first phase. The initiative aims to vaccinate at least 90% of eligible girls during this campaign and integrate the vaccine into routine immunization for 9-year-olds in subsequent years.
Pakistan loses eight women daily to cervical cancer, making this prevention campaign crucial for women’s health. The free vaccination will be conducted at fixed centers, schools, outreach sites, and through mobile teams to reach high-risk and underserved populations.
Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal urged parents to ensure their daughters get vaccinated despite false propaganda campaigns. “This vaccine is safe, effective and essential for protecting our girls,” he said, emphasizing that ensuring healthier futures for daughters is a shared responsibility.
Gavi’s Chief Country Delivery Officer Thabani Maphosa noted that a single HPV dose can prevent most cervical cancer cases, yet a woman dies from the disease every two minutes globally. “Thanks to the leadership of the Government of Pakistan and the commitment of our partners, we now have the chance to reshape the future of women’s health in the country,” he said.
Over 60 million girls worldwide have received HPV vaccination with Gavi support to date.
UNICEF Representative Pernille Ironside called it a historic step giving girls the chance to grow without fear of cervical cancer. WHO Representative Dr. Dapeng Luo emphasized the vaccine’s safety record across Muslim countries, noting it represents an investment in healthier futures for girls, families, and the entire nation.
