Pakistan’s first-ever HPV vaccination drive for girls aged 9 to 14
ISLAMABAD – A survivor’s harrowing story of cervical cancer highlights the urgent need for prevention. The disease is the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths among women worldwide, with the burden falling disproportionately on low- and middle-income countries like India and Pakistan.But unlike many cancers, cervical cancer is almost entirely preventable through early screening and HPV vaccination. Recognizing this, Pakistan is launching its first-ever HPV vaccination drive this month in collaboration with global health partners.
Pakistan Launches First Nationwide HPV Vaccine Drive to Prevent Cervical Cancer
The nationwide campaign, running September 15–27, 2025, targets 13 million girls aged 9 to 14 across Punjab, Sindh, Islamabad Capital Territory, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
Sindh alone aims to vaccinate nearly four million girls, according to provincial health officials. The Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) will provide the doses free of charge.
The campaign involves over 49,000 trained health workers and is being hailed as a historic milestone for women’s health.
Also Read:Pakistan to Launch First Nationwide Cervical Cancer Vaccination Drive
Why It Matters
Nearly all cervical cancers are linked to persistent infection with human papillomavirus (HPV). Two strains, HPV 16 and HPV 18, cause 70% of cases.
Medical experts emphasize that targeting adolescent girls before exposure is crucial:
“By reaching them early, before they’re exposed to HPV, we’re literally safeguarding their future health.”
How the Rollout Works
The campaign will deploy a multi-pronged strategy:
- Fixed-site services at EPI centres
- Mobile vaccination teams for hard-to-reach communities
- Outreach via schools supported by the Education Department
- Lady Health Workers and NGOs for out-of-school girls
Over 14,000 workers will be mobilized, supported by a digital tracking system to monitor coverage.
Expert Warnings
While the HPV vaccine is proven safe and effective, doctors warn of potential vaccine hesitancy.
Some epidemiologists noted myths linking the vaccine to infertility may surface, though research shows HPV infection itself poses reproductive risks.
Gynaecologists have added that a single-dose schedule endorsed by health authorities could simplify delivery and boost acceptance.
Pakistan’s Health Milestone
Pakistan sees over 5,000 new cervical cancer cases annually, with more than 3,000 deaths.
By integrating the HPV vaccine into routine immunisation, Pakistan follows the path of over 140 countries that have already made it part of their national health programmes.
Health officials emphasize the key role of parents and teachers:
“Teachers, in particular, hold significant influence. If they support the vaccine, parents are more likely to follow.”
A Path Forward
This campaign is not only about vaccines but about building trust, awareness, and health systems. If successful, it could serve as a public health breakthrough for women in Pakistan and a model for other provinces to follow.
