Health Specialists Call for Greater Public Education on HPV Vaccine Uptake

Medical experts have renewed calls for stronger public education on Human Papillomavirus (HPV), stressing that improved awareness is key to increasing vaccination rates and reducing related health risks in Nigeria.

The specialists warned that HPV remains widely misunderstood despite being one of the most common viral infections affecting the reproductive system and a major cause of cervical cancer.

They noted that many people are still unaware of how the virus spreads, its long-term health consequences, and the protection offered by available vaccines.

According to health professionals, misinformation and low awareness continue to slow down vaccination efforts, particularly among adolescents who are the primary target group for immunisation.

They explained that HPV is mainly transmitted through sexual contact and can exist in the body without showing symptoms for long periods, making it easier for it to spread unknowingly.

The experts emphasised that vaccination before exposure to the virus offers the highest level of protection, adding that early immunisation, combined with regular health screening, remains the most effective prevention strategy.

They also highlighted the need for parents, schools, and community leaders to play a more active role in educating young people about the benefits of the vaccine and addressing cultural misconceptions that discourage uptake.

Health stakeholders further urged government and partners to intensify outreach campaigns, especially in rural and underserved communities where awareness levels are still low.

They concluded that expanding education on HPV and improving access to vaccines would significantly reduce the burden of cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases in the country.