Andhra Pradesh gets 1.9 lakh HPV vaccine doses in second phase

Andhra Pradesh has received 1,90,890 doses of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in the second phase of distribution, which will be sent to districts according to local needs, said Satya Kumar Yadav, Minister for Health, Medical Education, and Family Welfare.

The Union government had earlier sent 1,90,800 doses, aimed at vaccinating 14-year-old girls against HPV infections, which can lead to cervical cancer. The vaccine is being administered as part of a nationwide programme to reduce cervical cancer among adolescent girls.

In a statement on Monday, the Minister said the vaccination drive will continue until May. The State has 3.45 lakh girls aged 14, and as of Monday afternoon, 1,14,512 (33.19%) had received the vaccine. Health officials said vaccination sessions are being held in schools as well as at 1,645 primary health centres (PHCs) and urban PHCs (UPHCs) equipped with cold chain facilities.

District-wise, Kurnool leads with 6,785 doses administered, followed by SPSR Nellore (6,726), YSR Kadapa (6,725), and Anantapur (6,655). The lowest coverage was recorded in Polavaram (669), Alluri Sitarama Raju (1,063), Sri Sathya Sai (2,769), and Anakapalli (2,959). Authorities have urged parents to ensure their daughters complete the vaccination schedule for full protection.

The Minister said no adverse reactions have been reported so far in the State. “The programme is being carefully monitored, and the safety of the vaccine is being prioritised at all vaccination sites,” he added.

Medical experts stressed that early vaccination is a key preventive step against cervical cancer, one of the most common cancers affecting women in India. The Health Ministry has also been running awareness campaigns to encourage participation and clear doubts about the vaccine.