The Jigawa State government has reassured residents about the safety of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.
Dr Shehu Sambo, Executive Secretary of the Jigawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, gave the assurance in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Dutse on Sunday.
HPV is a common group of over 200 viruses, spread mainly through skin-to-skin contact, often sexually. Certain types can cause genital warts, while others are “high-risk” and may lead to various cancers.
Sambo said the HPV vaccine is safe, harmless, and protective, stressing that administering it to girls would improve maternal outcomes in the state.
He explained that the HPV vaccine has been integrated into the state’s routine immunisation programme, targeting girls aged 9–14.
“We are assuring people of Jigawa that since the state government agreed to facilitate the introduction of the vaccine from the Federal Government down to states, LGAs, and the population, it is important and key in improving our maternal outcomes.
“Cervical cancer kills a lot of women, and usually they present late. So if we are able to protect our girls, then we will improve the survival of our women in the state.
“I assure parents and caregivers that this vaccine is very safe and is being used worldwide,” he said.
He added that the awareness campaigns aim to correct misconceptions and address vaccine hesitancy in the state.
According to Sambo, the agency is conducting outreach and sensitisation activities to mobilise participation and improve uptake of the vaccine.
(NAN)
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