Osun Government launches free Vitamin A and HPV vaccines for over one million children and adolescent girls to boost maternal and child health
Osun child health campaign has officially commenced as the state government rolls out free Vitamin A supplementation and life-saving vaccines to over one million children and adolescent girls.
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The intervention targets children aged 6 months to 5 years for Vitamin A supplements and routine immunisation. At the same time, girls aged 9 to 14 years are receiving the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine to protect them against cervical cancer.
Announcing the launch during the flag-off of the Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Week in Osogbo, Osun State Commissioner for Health, Jola Akintola, said the programme demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving public health.
Representing Governor Ademola Adeleke at the event, Akintola stressed the importance of maternal and child care, and the urgent need to correct misinformation surrounding HPV vaccination.
“This initiative is a crucial step in reducing child mortality and cervical cancer among women. Our aim is not just to protect, but also to educate families, especially at the grassroots, on the benefits of these vaccines,” Akintola stated.
Health professionals at the event underscored the importance of public enlightenment in dispelling myths about HPV vaccines.
This initiative is a crucial step in reducing child mortality and cervical cancer among women. Our aim is not just to protect, but also to educate families, especially at the grassroots, on the benefits of these vaccines.
They called for intensified efforts to raise awareness, particularly in rural communities where knowledge gaps remain a significant challenge.
HPV vaccines, experts explained, help the body produce protective antibodies that can prevent infection from high-risk HPV strains known to cause cervical cancer.
The vaccine, they noted, is most effective when administered before exposure to the virus, making the 9–14-year age bracket ideal.
The government’s campaign aligns with global best practices in preventive healthcare, especially in promoting early immunisation and boosting child survival rates.
It also contributes to Nigeria’s efforts to meet the World Health Organisation’s targets for universal access to vaccines and the elimination of cervical cancer.
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With this campaign, Osun joins a growing list of Nigerian states implementing aggressive public health strategies to safeguard future generations.
