The Expanded Programme on Immunization Pakistan, in partnership with Jhpiego, held a media briefing to announce the introduction of the HPV vaccine and to prepare the media for an upcoming national HPV vaccination campaign. Health officials stressed the need for strong public awareness and accurate reporting to ensure broad community uptake.
The briefing brought together media representatives from the capital and from Azad Jammu and Kashmir to receive details about the vaccine rollout and campaign objectives. Organizers outlined the campaign’s goal of protecting girls from human papillomavirus infection, which is a leading cause of cervical cancer, and described coordination efforts between national and local health authorities.
Speakers at the event underscored the critical role of the press in reaching communities with clear, evidence-based information. Experts warned that misinformation could undermine vaccine confidence and said targeted communication will be essential to achieve high vaccination coverage.
The District Health Officer of Islamabad highlighted the importance of timely vaccination for young girls as a primary prevention measure against cervical cancer. He also commended the media for its potential to amplify credible messages and encourage families to participate in the campaign.
Organizers concluded by urging journalists to work closely with health officials to disseminate accurate, accessible information so that the campaign can reach its intended beneficiaries and reduce the burden of HPV-related disease.
