Ministry of Health lunches nationwide HPV vaccine

The Ministry of Health has launched the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine Campaign targeting girls between the ages of 9 and 18 in Montserrado County. The launch was held simultaneously in Rivercess and Montserrado Counties and brought together government officials, health workers, civil society groups, and students. Speaking at the ceremony on Monday, Health Minister Dr. Louise Kpoto said the campaign aims to raise nationwide awareness and ensure thousands of girls are vaccinated against HPV.

She noted that the vaccine significantly reduces the risk of cervical and other related cancers, as well as genital warts. Dr. Kpoto described the introduction of the HPV vaccine as a major milestone in the fight against cervical cancer among adolescent girls in Liberia. She extended appreciation to partners and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to making lifesaving vaccines accessible to all eligible girls. The Minister also encouraged parents to take full advantage of the free vaccination opportunity.

“It is an important day for girls and the future of Liberia. As we roll out this HPV vaccine, we can assure you that we are improving the primary health care system of Liberia,” she said. Dr. Kpoto thanked partners for their continued support and urged students across the country to serve as ambassadors for the campaign. She also commended the Ministries of Education and Gender for their collaboration.
The campaign was officially launched on behalf of First Lady Kortumu Boakai by Varfee Holmes, who described the initiative as an act of national protection and a crucial step toward safeguarding the health of future generations.

The First Lady reaffirmed her commitment to championing women’s and girls’ health, stressing that protecting young girls today helps build a healthier and stronger Liberia tomorrow. Highlighting the scope of the initiative, she disclosed that the campaign aims to achieve 90% coverage, targeting 560,000 girls nationwide. She assured parents that the HPV vaccine is safe, effective, and lifesaving, dispelling myths and encouraging families to support the effort wholeheartedly.

“Health campaigns succeed not because government announces them, but because families believe in them,” she said, calling on parents and guardians to ensure their daughters receive the vaccine. She also urged young girls to view the vaccine as a shield that protects their future. Meanwhile, delivering a special statement on behalf of the Program Manager of the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI), Dr. Nowah Gorpu Dolo disclosed that cervical cancer remains the most common cancer in Liberia and claims the lives of many young women each year.

She explained that the HPV virus is responsible for more than 70 percent of cervical cancer cases and encouraged adolescent girls to take advantage of the free vaccination program. Dr. Dolo further revealed that the Ministry of Health will extend vaccinations beyond the regular age range to ensure more girls across Liberia receive protection.
What does the HPV vaccine do?

Human papillomavirus, also called HPV, is spread through sexual activity. Some strains cause genital warts, while others can lead to cancer. In many cases, the body naturally clears HPV, but when the virus remains for a long time, it can cause serious health complications, including cancer. Health experts say the HPV  vaccine helps prevent these outcomes in both men and women. It protects against genital warts and most cases of cervical cancer, as well as cancers of the vagina, vulva, penis, and anus. The vaccine also offers protection against mouth, throat, head, and neck cancers caused by HPV. By introducing the body to harmless components of HPV strains, the vaccine enables the immune system to recognize and fight the virus more effectively if exposed in the future.

Author: Cooper Sangar