As the Nigerian Federal Government prepares to launch the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine in Abuja on October 24, it is actively dispelling myths suggesting the vaccine reduces fertility in girls.
Dr. Uche Nwokwu, the acting Director of Clinical Services at the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), has refuted these claims, emphasising the importance of the vaccine in protecting against HPV-related diseases.
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The HPV Vaccine and Its Importance
HPV is a virus primarily transmitted through skin-to-skin contact and is common in sexually active individuals. It is a significant factor in the development of cervical cancer and other related cancers, making vaccination crucial. By protecting girls from the virus before their first exposure, it can significantly reduce the risk of these debilitating diseases.
The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, in collaboration with partners such as Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, WHO, and UNICEF, is set to launch the vaccine. The rollout will initially cover 16 selected states, including Abia, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Enugu, FCT, Jigawa, Kano, Kebbi, Lagos, Nasarawa, Ogun, Osun, and Taraba.
Dispelling Misconceptions and Concerns
Dr. Nwokwu addressed concerns regarding the vaccine’s side effects, reassuring the public that they would be detailed in the vaccine’s leaflets. He stressed that side effects such as mild pain at the injection site or mild fever should not deter individuals from receiving the vaccine. Furthermore, he debunked the misconception that the vaccine reduces fertility, stating, “The benefits of the vaccine are greater than the minor fever reactions at the site of the injection, and it does not reduce the person’s fertility. Also, there is no known long-term effects discovered, and for now, there is no evidence that it has any adverse effects.”
Dr. Nwokwu explained that HPV is responsible for various disease conditions, with cervical cancer being one of the most severe consequences. Although there are different HPV variants, types 16 and 18 are primarily responsible for cervical cancer, accounting for almost 70 to 90 percent of cases. Notably, the virus may be present in many individuals without causing cancer, as it usually resolves itself. However, when the immune system cannot clear the virus, it can lead to cervical cancer.
Vulnerable Period for Girls
The danger of HPV arises when young girls are exposed to the virus while their cervix is still maturing. During this phase, the cervix has a vulnerable transformation zone, which can be taken advantage of by the virus. Dr. Nwokwu stressed the vaccine’s importance, as it protects girls from the risk of contracting the virus in the future.
The primary target for HPV vaccination is young girls who have not yet been exposed to the virus, typically aged nine to 14 years. Vaccination is essential during this period, just before they reach puberty and become sexually active. The vaccine’s efficacy decreases once someone has been exposed to HPV. Dr. Nwokwu also suggested that countries with the capacity should consider vaccinating both girls and boys, as the virus can affect both genders.
Nigeria’s National Strategic Plan for the Prevention of Cervical Cancer currently focuses on immunizing girls. However, as the economy improves and vaccine availability increases, the goal is to make HPV vaccination routine and accessible to both girls and boys. For girls who have already been sexually exposed to HPV, HPV DNA tests are recommended to determine their status. The vaccine dosage depends on the specific brand used, but it offers lifetime immunity against the virus.
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Inaugurating Potent Vaccines
Nigeria is launching a vaccine with the ability to protect against four HPV variants. The introduction of this vaccine signals Nigeria’s commitment to improving public health and preventing HPV-related diseases in young girls.
As Nigeria prepares to launch this important vaccination campaign, health officials and experts are actively working to educate the public about the vaccine’s safety and benefits, ensuring the well-being of girls across the nation.