Parents of female students at Eki Vaki Primary School recently gathered for an essential educational awareness session regarding the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, a critical health initiative aimed at protecting young girls aged 9 to 14 from cervical cancer. 

During the session, informational brochures were handed out to the parents to further educate them on the virus and how they can protect their daughters from HPV.

Addressing the parents in attendance, Mr. Killian Raikau, the Immunization Program Manager for the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA), emphasized the proven track record and safety of the vaccine, which has only recently been introduced in Papua New Guinea. 

“Over 160 countries have been administering this vaccination, and it is the safest vaccine to be used,” Mr. Raikau assured the parents. 

He highlighted the urgency of the rollout by pointing to national health data that according to statistics, cervical cancer is the third leading cancer in the country after breast cancer.

Mr. Raikau explained to the parents that the vaccination campaign specifically targets school-aged girls between 9 and 14 because the vaccine is most effective when administered before an individual becomes sexually active. 

For mothers, older women, and those who are already sexually active or past the eligible age bracket for the vaccine, Mr. Raikau advised regular check-ups, noting that rapid tests are available at the Badili Stop & Shop clinic for a fee of K20.

During his presentation, the Immunization Program Manager outlined the three primary methods for preventing and managing cervical cancer: vaccination, regular testing, and treatment for those who have already contracted the sickness. 

“The most effective strategy is to get vaccinated to protect from getting cancer in the future.”

This government-backed initiative is being rolled out in partnership with the Department of Education to ensure comprehensive awareness across schools. 

The National Capital District is serving as the pilot province for the program before it expands to other provinces across Papua New Guinea starting next year. 

Since the campaign officially launched in September at New Erima Primary School, a total of four schools in the NCD have successfully carried out the vaccinations.

Following the parents’ awareness session, Eki Vaki Primary School is scheduled to receive its vaccinations as early as next week, pending parental consent. 

Mr. Raikau also reassured the parents that any eligible female students who happen to miss out during the school rollout will still be able to get vaccinated at their nearest health clinic.