In a landmark public health effort, Pakistan is set to roll out its first-ever nationwide HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccination campaign to combat the high burden of cervical cancer—the third most common cancer among women in the country.
Key Highlights of the Campaign:
Launch Date & Coverage: Scheduled from September 15 to 27, 2025, the campaign will cover Punjab, Sindh, Islamabad Capital Territory, and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
Target Group: Aimed at 13 million girls aged 9–14 years, with vaccination to be administered at schools, fixed sites, community centers, and via mobile units.
Healthcare Workforce Preparedness: Over 49,000 health workers are being trained by the World Health Organization (WHO) in areas like microplanning, community mobilization, and safe vaccine delivery.
Phased Rollout:
2026: Expansion into Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
2027: Launch in Balochistan and Gilgit-BaltistanThe NationEMRO
Funding & Global Alignment: The drive is supported by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, aligning with the WHO’s global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer by ensuring 90% of girls are vaccinated by age 15.The NationPhotoNews PakistanEMRO
Public Awareness & Registration: Registration is already underway, with voice-message campaigns informing parents and guardians about vaccine benefits and safety
