Nagaland has launched a state-wide initiative to improve awareness about HPV vaccination and cervical cancer prevention among adolescent girls, parents and communities.
The Health and Family Welfare Department launched ‘Teeka Talk’ on September 17 in collaboration with non-profit organisation Girl Effect India. The initiative aims to provide families with reliable information about the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine and its role in preventing infections linked to cervical cancer and other cancers.
More than 60 representatives from the Health, Education and Women and Child Development departments attended a state-level meeting held as part of the programme.
Principal Director of Health and Family Welfare Dr Keveduyi Theyo said coordinated action involving departments, schools, communities and frontline workers would be important to ensure adolescent girls and their families receive accurate information about HPV vaccination.
State Immunisation Officer Dr Imkongtemsu Longchar said cervical cancer remained a public health concern and highlighted HPV vaccination as a key preventive measure. He urged parents and caregivers to ensure eligible girls received the vaccine at the recommended age.
Under the state’s immunisation programme, HPV vaccination is provided free of cost to 14-year-old girls at government health facilities.
As part of ‘Teeka Talk’, information on HPV vaccination and cervical cancer prevention will be disseminated through schools, communities and digital platforms. The initiative also includes a WhatsApp-based chatbot providing information and answers to commonly asked questions about HPV vaccination and cervical cancer.
The next phase will involve implementation across districts, focusing on schools, parents and communities to raise awareness about vaccination and prevention.
