Vihiga Rolls Out Major HPV Vaccination Drive Targeting Over 16,000 Girls by 2026
Interfaith Organisation Vihiga County chairperson Derrick Wawire echoed the call and urged religious leaders to give their voice and influence to the campaign
She encouraged communities to overcome misinformation or fear and take full advantage of the programme. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
For these reasons, the health authorities in Vihiga County have embarked on an aggressive campaign to ensure over 16,090 ten-year-old girls get vaccinated against the Human Papilloma Virus by the end of 2026. This comes amid a renewed effort to stem rising cases of cervical cancer.
Speaking at the launch in Mbale Municipal Grounds, County Immunisation Coordinator Edith Anjere reminded them that early vaccination was very key, stressing that protection before the first potential exposure to the virus continues to be the most effective way of ensuring prevention of diseases caused by the virus.
“This HPV vaccine will reduce cases of cervical cancer significantly. We call upon parents to seize the opportunity,” said Anjere, as the vaccination is offered freely in all 102 health facilities across the county.
She said this is in line with global recommendations that encourage the counties to have early immunisation before adolescents. The new single dose, which has been endorsed by the World Health Organization to be implemented from 2026, will target all healthy girls within the age bracket.
Anjere, however, said that girls with compromised immunity, especially those living with HIV/AIDS and other underlying conditions due to severe malnutrition, would still receive the three-dose schedule for full protection.
She also called on the community to reject myths and misinformation that usually accompany the HPV jab, reassuring parents of its safety and efficiency. She noted that the fear and falsehoods have led to poor uptake in some regions and urged families to rely on verified medical guidance.
“Cervical cancer remains one of the most preventable diseases, yet it continues to claim lives due to late diagnosis and low vaccination coverage,” Anjere said. “We are asking all caregivers to support this campaign wholeheartedly.”
Interfaith Organisation Vihiga County chairperson Derrick Wawire echoed the call and urged religious leaders to give their voice and influence to the campaign. He stressed that faith and health must work hand in hand for the wellbeing of communities.
“We invite religious leaders to support this move. Spiritual guidance must be accompanied by health, so that our children grow up healthy and safe,” Wawire said.
The county government has deployed health workers, community mobilizers, and local administrators to increase outreach, especially in the rural villages where vaccine uptake has always been low. With sustained sensitization, improved readiness of the facilities, and involvement of faith-based groups and schools, Vihiga County is optimistic of surpassing the target for vaccination and subsequently recording desirable declines in cases of cervical cancer in future years.
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