Ghana is preparing to launch a nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign targeting over 2.2 million girls.
This is geared towards the goal of reducing cervical cancer cases in the country.
The campaign, set to begin in September, will focus on vaccinating girls aged nine, marking a shift from a school-grade-based to an age-based approach.
Dr. Selorm Kutsoati, Acting Programmes Manager for the Expanded Programme on Immunization at the Ghana Health Service, confirmed that the switch was informed by lessons from previous pilot campaigns and extensive consultations with stakeholders.
“So we are not saying that if you are in class three or four you should take it,” Dr. Kutsoati explained.
“This time, we are looking at age. What we are giving is not just targeting cervical cancer but also the added benefit of preventing genital warts. It’s very efficacious and very safe.”
The government, in collaboration with UNICEF, has secured over 2.5 million vaccine doses, with an initial shipment of more than 440,000 already received. Distribution to regions and districts is expected in the coming weeks.
Cervical cancer remains a major public health issue in Ghana, with nearly 2,800 new cases and around 1,700 deaths reported each year.
The HPV vaccine targets the three most dangerous strains of the virus, aiming to provide long-term protection for young girls before they become sexually active.
While vaccination is a critical step, Dr. Kutsoati noted that continued screening and early detection will be essential in fighting cervical cancer across all age groups.
