The Jigawa State Government has reassured residents of the safety of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.
Dr Shehu Sambo, Executive Secretary of the Jigawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, gave the assurance in an interview with reporters in Dutse on Sunday.
He said the HPV vaccine is safe, harmless, and highly protective, stressing that administering it to girls would significantly improve maternal health outcomes in the state.
Sambo noted that the vaccine has been integrated into the state’s routine immunization programme, targeting girls aged 9–14.
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“We are assuring the people of Jigawa that since the state government agreed to facilitate the introduction of the vaccine from the Federal Government down to states, LGAs, and communities, it is important and key in improving our maternal outcomes.
“Cervical cancer kills many women, and they usually present late. By protecting our girls, we will improve the survival of women in the state.
“I assure parents and caregivers that this vaccine is very safe and is used worldwide,” he said.
He added that these efforts would correct misconceptions and reduce vaccine hesitancy in the state.
According to Sambo, the agency is conducting awareness creation activities to mobilize participation and improve vaccine uptake.
