KATHMANDU, FEBRUARY 8 The Ministry of Health and Population has launched a nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign for girls from today, aiming to prevent cervical cancer. According to the Child Health and Immunization Branch under the Department of Health Services, the campaign will run from Magh 25 to Falgun 15 (February 8–27). In high-altitude Himalayan districts facing extreme cold, the vaccination programme will be conducted later during Chaitra–Baisakh, the MoHP stated. The campaign targets:

• All girls studying in Grade 6
• Out-of-school girls aged 10 years
• Girls studying in Grades 7 to 10 who missed vaccination last year
• Out-of-school girls aged 11 to 14 years

Girls studying in Grade 6 will be vaccinated at their respective schools, while others will receive the vaccine at nearby schools or designated health institutions. Health authorities have stated that the HPV vaccine is completely free and safe, and significantly reduces the risk of cervical cancer in the future. Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in Nepal and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Chief of the Branch, Dr Abhiyan Gautam, urged parents, guardians and stakeholders to ensure eligible girls receive the vaccine within the campaign period. Around 350,000 girls are expected to be vaccinated during the 20-day drive.