Dera ismail khan:A media orientation session on the upcoming Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and anti-polio campaigns was held here to brief media representatives on vaccination, cervical cancer prevention, and the importance of public awareness.
Acting District Health Officer Dr. Taj Muhammad, EPI Coordinator Dr. Irfan Aziz, CCO COMNet Dr. Saleem, ACO COMNet Muhammad Imran, NSTOP officers and representatives of various media organizations attended the session.
The participants were given a detailed briefing on HPV, its different types, the risks of cervical cancer, possible symptoms, diagnosis and the importance of timely vaccination.
The officials highlighted HPV vaccination as an important preventive measure against cervical cancer, particularly for girls aged 9 to 14 years. They said the HPV vaccine is administered as a single dose and has been included in national immunization programmes in 162 countries.
The participants were further informed that the HPV vaccination campaign in Dera Ismail Khan would target 135,243 girls. Mobile, fixed and outreach teams have been constituted, while preparations for the campaign are underway.
The campaign will be conducted from November 11 to November 24, 2026.
During the session, media representatives raised questions about the effectiveness and safety of the HPV vaccine, the eligible age group, dosage, possible side effects, and concerns among parents. Health officials and experts responded to the questions and provided detailed explanations.
The officials stressed the need to provide the public with accurate and authentic information about HPV and polio vaccination to counter misinformation and misconceptions. They urged media representatives to play an active role in raising awareness among parents about the benefits of vaccination and the prevention of cervical cancer.
The meeting emphasized that the success of the HPV vaccination campaign would require the collective support of the health department, district administration, educational institutions, seminaries, parents, media and all segments of society.
The authorities appealed to parents to ensure that their children receive HPV, polio and other recommended vaccinations to protect them from preventable diseases.