Keta: Communities in the Keta Municipality of the Volta Region have expressed readiness for the upcoming Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination exercise. The exercise, which is expected to commence on Tuesday, October 7 to 11, is targeted to protect young girls aged 9 to 14 against cervical cancer, a significant health concern in the country.
According to Ghana News Agency, local leaders and residents have expressed their support for the vaccination program, highlighting its importance in improving public health in the Municipality. Madam Dzifa Gbadegbe, a resident of Keta, stated that many in the community have acknowledged the importance of protecting their daughters from cervical cancer and have indicated their readiness to participate in the vaccination exercise.
She emphasized that cervical cancer poses serious health risks and the positive response from the public for HPV vaccination reflects the effectiveness of awareness campaigns and the community’s commitment to health. ‘This grassroots approach will help build trust and awareness among community members, and I hope this will go a long way to help our daughters,’ she said.
Madam Gbadegbe noted that healthcare professionals have also been involved in the awareness campaign, providing valuable information about the vaccine’s safety and efficacy. Parents have been reassured that the HPV vaccine is a safe and proven method for reducing the risk of cervical cancer. She explained that professional guidance from health workers has been instrumental in dispelling myths and misconceptions about the vaccine and its alleged side effects.
Mr. Joseph Dorgbetor, another resident, pledged to provide the necessary support and resources to facilitate the smooth implementation of the program. This includes working closely with healthcare professionals and community leaders to reach as many eligible girls as possible. He remarked that the readiness for the HPV vaccination exercise is a promising development in the fight against cervical cancer and that prioritizing public health and engaging with communities would enable the municipality to take proactive steps to protect the well-being of its residents.
Madam Dora Kugbonu, Public Health Promotion Officer at Keta, urged the public to support the initiative to protect the future of young daughters against cervical cancer. She described cervical cancer as a silent killer that could be prevented through HPV vaccination. All vaccinated girls will be provided with an immunization card as proof of vaccination, and she urged everyone to keep the cards safe after the vaccine.
Madam Kugbonu assured that the HPV vaccines are safe and effective, adding, ‘Trained healthcare workers will visit schools and communities to administer HPV vaccine to all girls aged 9-14. If you experience any adverse event after the vaccination, you must quickly report to the nearest health facility for attention.’ She highlighted that cervical cancer affects the reproductive organs of women and is a leading cause of death, while the HPV vaccine prevents HPV infections and offers protection against cervical cancer later in life, working best when administered before exposure to the virus.