Ghana Health Service schedules HPV vaccination for girls aged 9 to 14

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) is set to conduct a nationwide vaccination campaign targeting Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in schools across the country. In collaboration with the Ghana Education Service (GES), the initiative will focus on girls aged 9 to 14 years. This campaign is part of the Periodic Intensification of Routine Immunisation (PIRI) programme, designed to combat the prevalence of cervical cancer and other diseases associated with HPV.

The exercise is scheduled to take place in two distinct phases during the final quarter of 2026. According to the GHS, the first round of vaccinations will run from October 19 to 23, followed by a second round from November 30 to December 4. During these periods, health personnel will visit educational institutions to administer the vaccines to eligible students who have not yet been immunised. This structured approach aims to ensure that a high percentage of the target population receives the necessary doses for effective protection.

The primary objective of the campaign is to raise public awareness and improve the uptake of the HPV vaccine, which is a critical tool in preventing cervical cancer. To ensure the success of the programme, health authorities are calling for strong cooperation from school administrators, teachers, and parents. The GHS has emphasised that community support is essential for the smooth implementation of the school-based visits and for achieving the desired coverage among young girls in Ghana.

Cervical cancer remains a significant health concern in the country, and health experts highlight that early vaccination for girls is the most effective preventative measure available. By integrating these vaccination rounds into the school environment, the service hopes to reach the most vulnerable age groups efficiently. This initiative follows ongoing efforts by the GHS to strengthen routine immunisation services and protect the next generation from vaccine-preventable cancers.