By Mildred Siabi-Mensah
Takoradi, Oct. 9, GNA – Ms. Henrietta Quabu, the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan School Health Education Programme Officer says learners and parents have been well informed on the ongoing Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination for girls in schools.
She said, some of the schools, also wrote to parents and guardians for permission for the inoculation intended to protect women and girls from cervical cancer.
Ms. Quabu, told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in an interview that the beginning of the exercise yesterday received some moderate rejection by some learners, noting that, that was expected.
She said the vaccination, however, cannot be forced on them.
“We realised some learners did not take part and we didn’t force them in any way. After the campaign the vaccination will be part of the routine vaccination at the health centers once a girl attains the age nine, she can go for it,” she said.
The SHEP officer said: “If at a later date the parents are convinced, girls within the age bracket can go to the health post for the vaccine.”
Ms. Quabu described the turnout as generally good, adding, “We hope for the best today and the rest of the days.”
The HPV, which starts within basic schools from 8th to 12th October would be part of Ghana’s routine immunization to protect girls aged 9-14 years against cervical cancer.
A single dose administered offers protection for life.
Dr. Gifty Amugi, the Deputy Director of Public Health at the Western Regional Directorate of the Ghana Health Service says continuous education is key to allay any fear of parents.
GNA
Edited by Justina Paaga/Benjamin Mensah