Maseru, Feb. 18 — The Ministry of Health is intensifying its call to parents and guardians across the country to ensure that girls aged 9 to 14 receive the HPV vaccine, a critical shield against cervical cancer.
According to the Ministry’s Public Relations Officer (PRO) Mrs. Mateboho Mosebekoa, the vaccine is now readily available in all health facilities nationwide, marking a significant shift from previous years when administration took place mainly during outreach campaigns.
She emphasised that this new approach ensures continuous access and enables families to vaccinate their children at the most convenient time.
Mrs. Mosebeko highlighted that in recent months, health facilities across districts have been actively administering the vaccine, with reports showing steady uptake in both urban and rural areas.
District Health Management Teams have also been conducting community mobilisation, school engagements, and radio awareness to increase coverage.
Preliminary coverage reports indicate encouraging progress, with thousands of eligible girls already vaccinated since the start of the year. The Ministry says improving access and awareness remains central to its goal of reducing HPV-related cervical cancer.
Parents and guardians are therefore urged to visit their nearest health facility to ensure their children are protected early, as the vaccine is most effective when administered before exposure to HPV.
The Ministry reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the health of young girls and building a future free from preventable cancers.
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