In a significant step to safeguard the health of young girls in Edo State, the Edo State Primary Health Care Development Agency (EDSPHCDA) orchestrated the inauguration of a Technical Working Group (TWG) for the introduction of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination into routine immunization.
The event which was held at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA) on Monday, marked the beginning of preparations for the upcoming HPV vaccination campaign scheduled to commence in May 2024.
The gathering convened illustrious members of society from diverse sectors including health, education, youth, civil society, associations, media, religious, and traditional sectors.
Inaugurating the TWG, Edo State Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Samuel Alli, emphasized the crucial role of the TWG in disseminating accurate information and ensuring the seamless execution of the HPV vaccination campaign scheduled to commence in May 2024 in Edo State.
Dr. Omosigho Izedonmwen, the Executive Secretary, EDSPHCDA and Chairman of the TWG, spoke on the persistent challenges of rumors, misinformation, and vaccine hesitancy across the state, adding that the HPV vaccines are safe, effective and will be administered free of charge starting from May 2024. He urged the members of the TWG to devise ingenious strategies to maximize HPV vaccine acceptability and uptake across the state.
Adding to the discourse, Dr. Efeomon Eseigbe, Director, of Disease Control and Immunization at EDSPHCDA, provided insights into the routinization of the HPV Vaccine, explaining that it commenced in October 2023 with a single-dose HPV vaccine rollout in phase one States.
While reflecting on lessons learned from phase one, Dr. Eseigbe highlighted that the State intends to ensure adequate sensitization and coverage of the target groups.
The State Immunization Officer, Mrs. Elfeda Omogun, delineated the expectations placed upon TWG members by ensuring ways for vaccine acceptability and uptake to protect these girls from cervical cancer.
As the event concluded, Chief Victor Osa Uzamere, the Obadiaye of Benin and Chairman of the Social Mobilization Committee (SMC) representing his Royal Majesty, the Oba of Benin, gave an acceptance speech on behalf of the newly inaugurated TWG members. He also expressed gratitude to the State Government and pledged unwavering support for the HPV vaccination campaign’s success.
