JIGAWA GOVERNMENT ASSURES RESIDENTS OF HPV VACCINE SAFETY

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By: Muftau Fatimo

The Jigawa State government has assured residents of the safety of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.

Dr. Shehu Sambo, Executive Secretary of the Jigawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, made the statement in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Dutse on Sunday.

HPV is a common group of over 200 viruses, primarily spread through skin-to-skin contact, often sexually. While some types cause genital warts, others are considered “high-risk” and can lead to various forms of cancer.

Sambo emphasized that the HPV vaccine is safe, harmless, and protective, noting that vaccinating girls would help improve maternal health outcomes in the state.

He explained that the HPV vaccine has been integrated into the state’s routine immunisation programme, targeting girls aged 9–14.

“We are assuring people of Jigawa that since the state government agreed to facilitate the introduction of the vaccine from the Federal Government down to states, LGAs, and the population, it is important and key in improving our maternal outcomes

“Cervical cancer kills a lot of women, and usually they present late. So if we are able to protect our girls, then we will improve the survival of our women in the state.

“I want to assure parents and caregivers that this vaccine is completely safe and is in use worldwide,” he said.

He added that the awareness campaigns are designed to dispel misconceptions and tackle vaccine hesitancy in the state.

Sambo noted that the agency is carrying out outreach and sensitization programs to encourage participation and increase vaccine uptake.

(NAN)