The Pakistani government is planning to vaccinate 10 million underage girls with the HPV vaccine, a move aimed at combating cervical cancer. The Ministry of Health has outlined a phased approach, starting with girls in Islamabad, Punjab, PoK, and Sindh, followed by Balochistan and Khyber.
The vaccine initiative is stirring debate in Pakistan, with many questioning its implementation, given the historical resistance to vaccination programs, including those for polio and COVID-19.
**Understanding the HPV Vaccine**
The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine is designed to prevent cervical cancer. This cancer primarily affects married women. The government’s decision to introduce the vaccine reflects its commitment to raising awareness and promoting preventative measures.
According to Rashida Batool, District Health Officer of Islamabad, approximately 5,000 Pakistani women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year, with about 3,000 succumbing to the disease annually. The government’s aim is to eradicate this threat.
HVP infection leads to cervical cancer in 70% of cases. This disease exclusively affects women. The Pakistani government emphasizes its adherence to WHO guidelines for the vaccine, which the World Health Organization says can effectively mitigate risks when administered proactively.
**Targeting Underage Girls**
The government’s decision to focus on underage girls, aged 9-14, raises questions about the exclusion of married women. The government asserts that the vaccine can reduce cervical cancer rates by 90%, a move intended to safeguard the future health of young girls.
**Past Vaccine Controversies**
Pakistan has faced significant challenges related to vaccine programs, particularly with the polio vaccine. Between 2012 and 2025, more than 20 attacks targeted polio teams, leading to 110 fatalities, including vaccinators and law enforcement. Similar controversies emerged during the COVID-19 vaccination drive.
Considering the past opposition, concerns remain whether the HPV vaccine will be readily accepted by underage girls in Pakistan, especially amidst the backdrop of ongoing unrest.