Pakistan’s first HPV vaccine campaign for girls encountered strong resistance as misinformation spread across communities. Parents, fearing infertility and hormonal effects, shut gates on healthcare workers, while some schools remained closed for days, preventing vaccinations.
The campaign aimed to vaccinate 11 million girls, but by its conclusion, only about half had received the doses. Social media amplified false claims that the vaccine promotes sexual activity or is part of a population-control conspiracy, echoing long-standing skepticism toward Western vaccines in the country.
Health officials emphasized that cervical cancer, caused in 95% of cases by HPV, is highly preventable with the WHO-approved vaccine. Pakistan’s mortality rate from cervical cancer is high due to cultural taboos, poor awareness, and limited screening and treatment.
To counter fears, Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal publicly administered the vaccine to his teenage daughter, demonstrating trust in its safety. Officials reiterated their commitment to make the vaccine available beyond the campaign to protect more girls, stressing that science-based measures can save lives amid widespread misconceptions and cultural barriers.
For complete details about this vaccine, must readAll About Cervical Cancer And HPV Vaccine As Pakistan Starts Campaign
