Pakistan to Launch First Nationwide Cervical Cancer Vaccination Drive
Pakistan Rolls Out Its First Cervical Cancer Vaccine Drive
Big news from Islamabad, Pakistan is finally launching its first nationwide cervical cancer vaccination campaign. Starting September 15, 2025, the program will run until September 27, targeting millions of young girls across the country.
The HPV vaccination drive will cover Punjab, Sindh, Islamabad, and Azad Kashmir in its first round. From public schools and private schools to madrassas and even mobile health units, the government says the vaccine will reach every eligible girl.
Campaign Details – Who’s Getting the HPV Vaccine?
The campaign is focused on 13 million girls between the ages of 9 and 14. Here’s how the vaccine doses are distributed:
- Punjab: 8.8 million doses (largest share)
- Sindh: 4 million doses
- Azad Kashmir: 349,000 doses
- Islamabad: 152,000 doses
All vaccines and syringes have already been delivered to the provinces, so the rollout starts without delay.
Who’s Funding the Cervical Cancer Vaccination Drive?
The campaign is being bankrolled by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, which has provided Rs. 10 billion worth of HPV vaccines and syringes. This ensures that the shots are completely free for all eligible girls.
Future campaigns in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (2026), Balochistan (2027), and Gilgit-Baltistan (2027) are also covered by Gavi. After this initial support, the Government of Pakistan plans to include the HPV vaccine in the routine immunization program, with funding managed locally.
Why Cervical Cancer Vaccination Matters
- Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers in women.
- The HPV virus is the leading cause of the disease.
- Vaccination between ages 9 to 14 offers the best protection before exposure.
- Free nationwide campaigns ensure equitable access for underprivileged families.
- Long-term, the HPV vaccine will save thousands of women’s lives in Pakistan.
FAQs – Pakistan’s Cervical Cancer Vaccine Drive
1. When does the vaccination campaign start?
The HPV vaccination campaign will run from September 15 to September 27, 2025, across Punjab, Sindh, Islamabad, and Azad Kashmir.
2. Who is eligible for the vaccine?
Girls between the ages of 9 and 14 are eligible for free HPV vaccination during this drive.
3. How many girls will be vaccinated?
Around 13 million girls will receive the cervical cancer vaccine in this nationwide campaign.
4. Which provinces are included in the first phase?
The campaign covers Punjab, Sindh, Islamabad, and Azad Kashmir in the initial rollout.
5. What about KPK, Balochistan, and Gilgit-Baltistan?
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will be included in 2026, while Balochistan and Gilgit-Baltistan are scheduled for 2027.
6. Who is funding the HPV vaccine program?
The program is funded by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, which has provided Rs. 10 billion in vaccines and syringes.
7. Will the HPV vaccine become part of routine immunization?
Yes, the Government of Pakistan plans to integrate the HPV vaccine into the routine immunization schedule for all girls up to age nine in the future.
