BY INDY MAEALASIA
WITH only 53 percent of eligible girls vaccinated against Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) is intensifying efforts to close this critical gap in cervical cancer protection by launching a nationwide HPV catch-up campaign this June.
The campaign will target girls aged nine to 14 who previously missed out on receiving the vaccine.
“Please take note of this important launch, it could save lives,” said Health Minister Paul Bosawai.
HPV vaccination was first introduced in the Solomon Islands in 2015 through a demonstration project in Honiara City Council and Isabel Province. The project was later evaluated and deemed successful.
“We then introduced, HPV vaccine into our routine schedule, and conducted the national launch, in May 2019, we managed to reach a coverage, of 53 percent,” Minister Bosawai said.
However, due to disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccine coverage has remained below target. In response, the national immunization team has been working since last year to prepare a major catch-up effort for HPV.
“Let’s not give up. let’s push forward to increase coverage,” the Minister urged. “Starting today, our teams will begin community awareness campaigns, microplanning with healthcare workers and school-based focal point teachers, distributing vaccines to the most remote health facilities, and organizing outreach teams to vaccinate girls who missed their doses over the past four years.”
Minister Bosawai made a heartfelt appeal to parents, church leaders, community leaders, and national leaders across the country:
“We all have a responsibility to protect and build the future of this nation. If funding for vaccination is available, I urge every leader listening to me—prioritize the health of our girls. Encourage and support them to get vaccinated so they can be protected from cervical cancer later in life.”
He also called on schools and communities to be alert and cooperative when vaccination teams arrive in the coming weeks.
“The HPV vaccine protects girls from the virus that causes cervical cancer. Sometimes, our fear or hesitation around vaccines comes at a great cost—not immediately, but in the future,” he added.
Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among women in Solomon Islands.