The Union Health Ministry has rejected media reports that it is considering HPV vaccine for cervical cancer and says it closely tracks cases and consults with states.
The Union Health Ministry said Saturday it has not determined whether to vaccinate against cervical cancer with HPV. Dismissing media charges about the vaccine campaign, the ministry said it tracks cervical cancer cases nationally and contacts with states and health authorities.
Media reports that the government will start an HPV vaccination campaign for 9-14-year-old girls in the second quarter of 2024 are “not true”.
The government told the Rajya Sabha in March that the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI) suggested “a one-time catch-up” for 9-14-year-old females in June 2022, followed by routine introduction at nine years.
New disease burden statistics, single-dose HPV vaccination efficacy data, clinical trial data, and Sikkim’s vaccine introduction experience informed NTAGI’s recommendation.
Conclusion
The Union Health Ministry has rejected media reports that it is considering HPV vaccine for cervical cancer. The ministry actively tracks cervical cancer cases and talks with states and health authorities. The National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization recommended a one-time catch-up for 9-14-year-old girls, followed by routine introduction at nine.
