Jhalkathi, Oct 24 (V7N)- The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination program for girls has been launched at the school level in Jhalkathi to prevent cervical cancer. Deputy Commissioner Ashrafur Rahman inaugurated the program at Collectorate School on Thursday morning. For the first time, a target has been set to vaccinate 32,452 girls across the district.

The opening ceremony, chaired by HM Zahirul Islam, featured Dr. Ujjal Kumar Roy, Civil Surgeon, and Superintendent of Police Kawshar Hossain as special guests. During the event, organizers emphasized that the HPV vaccine is globally recognized as a safe and effective measure against cervical cancer, providing long-term immunity to girls aged 10 to 14.

The vaccination program will begin on November 7 for female students studying in classes V to IX. Out-of-school girls within the same age group will receive the vaccine from November 9 to 24.

Authorities highlighted the importance of this initiative in reducing the risk of cervical cancer and encouraged all eligible girls to participate in the program to ensure better public health outcomes.

END/AI/AJ