Lagos incorporates HPV vaccines into immunisation programme

Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, wife of the governor of Lagos, has inaugurated the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines into the state’s routine immunisation programme.

Speaking during the inauguration on Monday, the Lagos first lady said the HPV vaccine is a powerful tool in the prevention of cervical cancer, which affects many women globally.

“HPV is a common sexually transmitted virus; an individual can get HPV by having vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone who has the virus,” she said.

“Almost all cervical cancer cases (99 percent) are linked to infection with high-risk HPV.”

She said the misinformation that the HPV vaccine encourages promiscuity is being promoted by uninformed persons.

She added that accurate information is necessary for empowering communities to make informed decisions about their health.

“Extensive research and rigorous testing have been conducted to ensure the safety and efficacy of this HPV vaccine with the approval of relevant regulatory bodies and reputable health organisations worldwide,” the Lagos first lady said.

“Let us dispel the wrong notion surrounding the HPV vaccine and embrace the opportunity it presents to prevent HPV-related diseases.

“It is the duty of everybody to be vocal about the importance of this vaccination by ensuring that everyone within our sphere of influence partakes in this exercise.”

HPV vaccines are vaccines that prevent infection by certain types of human papillomavirus, a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause a range of conditions in men and women, such as cervical cancer.