By Evans Worlanyo Ameamu, GNA
Keta (VR), Oct. 1, GNA – 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.
The local leaders and residents have so far expressed their support for the vaccination programme, highlighting its importance in improving public health among others in the Municipality.
Madam Dzifa Gbadegbe, a resident of Keta told the Ghana News Agency that many have acknowledged the importance of protecting their daughters from cervical cancer and have indicated their readiness to participate in the vaccination exercise.
She said that cervical cancer was dangerous and could lead to several health implications and the positive response from the public for HPV vaccination was a testament to the effectiveness of the awareness campaigns and the community’s commitment to health.
“This grassroot approach will help build trust and awareness among community members, l hope this will go a long way to help our daughters,” she said.
She noted that healthcare professionals have also been involved in the awareness campaign, providing valuable information about the vaccine’s safety and efficacy while parent have been reassured that the HPV vaccine was safe and proven method for reducing the risk of cervical cancer.
Madam Gbadegbe explained that the professional guidance from the health workers had been instrumental in dispelling the myths and misconceptions created about the vaccine and its alleged side effects.
“This initiative might be part of a broader effort to improve healthcare outcomes in the municipality to reduce the incidence of cervical cancer. I believe vaccinating a significant portion of the population, a healthier and more resilient community will be created.”
Mr Joseph Dorgbetor, another resident pledged to provide the necessary support and resources to facilitate the smooth implementation of the programme such as working closely with healthcare professionals and community leaders to reach as many eligible individual girls as possible.
He said the readiness for the HPV vaccination exercise was a promising development in the fight against cervical cancer and prioritising 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, earlier urged the public to support the initiative to protect the future of young daughters against cervical cancer.
She said cervical cancer was a silent killer but could be prevented through HPV vaccination and stated that all girls who would be vaccinated would be provided with an immunization card as a proof of vaccination and urged all to keep the cards safe after the vaccine.
She said the HPV vaccines were safe and effective adding that, “Trained healthcare workers will visit schools and communities to administer HPV vaccine to all girls aged 9-14, and if you experience any adverse event after the vaccination, one must quickly report to the nearest health facility for attention.”
Madam Kugbonu said that cervical cancer affected the reproductive organs of a woman and was a leading cause of death and HPV vaccine prevents HPV infections and offer protection against cervical cancer later in future, but and work best when administered before exposure to the virus.
GNA
Edited by: Maxwell Awumah/Linda Asante Agyei