The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccination has been introduced into Papua New Guinea’s Immunization Programme and launched at the New Erima Primary School in Port Moresby city yesterday.  

This official launch is a major step taken by the Government of Papua New Guinea towards the protection of future generation of women and young girls between the ages of 9-14 years against cervical cancer. 

The vaccination campaign of Phase 1 will be implemented in schools as well as health facilities and community outreach in National Capital District and Central Province before gradually expending to other provinces, so that every girl and women in and around the country are reached and vaccinated.  

With cervical cancer as the leading cause of cancer deaths amongst women in Papua New Guinea, vaccinating girls before exposure to the virus can protect them against HPV is vital says Governor Parkop, who spoke on behalf of the Minister for Health, Dr Billy Joseph at the event. 

“The reason girls get the vaccine now is because we want to prevent HPV or prevent you before you get cancer later in your life. And today, we are starting. We will not wait for you to become sick, we are preventing disease before it starts, especially cervical cancer,” said Governor Parkop. 

During his speech, Governor Parkop also made mention of the power of information, especially misinformation on social media towards the HPV vaccine, that it may raise questions and impart fear in individuals and communities. He strongly encouraged citizens to ask their questions to the rightful authorities, be clear on the answers and get the vaccination. 

In closing his speech, Pakop strongly encouraged parents and teachers to encourage and educate young men and women on the importance of the HPV vaccination and why every young woman eligible of the HPV vaccine should be vaccinated. 

“Parents and teachers, I ask for your support, encourage our young people enabling them to be confident and comfortable to take the vaccination…. I can’t overstate the importance of today’s launch. It’s for Papua New Guinea girls, for women, and for the future of Papua New Guinea.” 

He said the young people should remember the three important things: their health matters, their education matters and their future matters. 

Meanwhile, there to witness the launch of the HPV vaccine is Secretary for Health Mr. Pascoe Kase, Deputy Secretary for Education, Ms. Sabati Mero, National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop, the Australian Government’s Minister-Counsellor Ms. Madeleine Moss, Gavi Chief Executive Officer Dr Sania Nishtar, WHO Representative Dr Rajendra-Prasad Yadav, and UNICEF Representative Dr Veera Mendonca.

Also there, were the students, teachers, health workers, community leaders, and partners.