Nigerian Government Dispels Myths About HPV Vaccine Amid Upcoming Launch

The Federal Government of Nigeria is set to launch the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine on October 24, aimed at protecting young girls from the virus, a primary cause of cervical cancer. Dr. Uche Nwokwu, acting Director of Clinical Services at the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), has strongly denied the spread of myths that claim the vaccine is intended to reduce fertility in girls. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Dr. Nwokwu dismissed these claims and emphasized the safety and importance of the HPV vaccine.

HPV is a virus transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, primarily affecting individuals who are sexually active. The vaccine is designed to protect girls before they are exposed to the virus, significantly reducing the risk of cervical cancer and other related cancers.

The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, in collaboration with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, WHO, and UNICEF, is launching the vaccine and plans to roll it out in 16 selected states across Nigeria. Dr. Nwokwu clarified that while the vaccine may have some mild side effects, these side effects are generally well-documented and should not deter individuals from receiving it.

The myths surrounding the HPV vaccine’s impact on fertility are baseless and unfounded, according to Dr. Nwokwu. He reiterated that the vaccine offers numerous benefits, such as preventing the virus’s transmission and significantly reducing the risk of cancer.

HPV is responsible for various disease conditions, particularly cancer of the cervix, with specific HPV variants, namely types 16 and 18, causing the majority of cases. While some people may have the virus without developing cancer, it can lead to cancer when the immune system fails to clear the virus. The HPV vaccine targets young girls between nine and 14 years old who have not yet been sexually exposed to the virus.

Dr. Nwokwu recommended expanding the vaccination to include boys as well, as they can also carry HPV. However, the primary concern in Nigeria is to immunize girls, with the goal of eventually integrating the vaccine into the country’s Primary Health Care National Programme on immunization.

For girls who have been sexually exposed, HPV DNA tests are recommended to determine their status. The vaccine’s effectiveness and dosage may vary depending on the brand used, but it can provide lifelong immunity against the virus. Nigeria will be inaugurating a vaccine with potency against four variants of HPV to protect its population against cervical cancer.

The upcoming launch of the HPV vaccine is part of Nigeria’s commitment to improving healthcare and reducing the impact of preventable diseases on its population.