New Delhi: After prolonged request for the inclusion of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine indicated for the treatment of cervical cancer in the national immunisation programme, the centre is finally planning to roll out the medication in a “few months” time frame.
Responding to a media query at a press conference convened by Union Health Minister JP Nadda, Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava confirmed the update but did not specify an exact timeline. She stated that the ministry is strategizing the implementation process.
However the top official did not provide an exact time frame but just stated that the ministry is strategising the way forward and the vaccine will be rolled out in a few months time.
Earlier during the monsoon session of Parliament in 2024, the Health Minister JP Nadda had voiced that,“the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation has recommended adding the HPV vaccination. But… the govt is having an active consideration on it and there are logistical issues which need to be addressed first.”
As per the government the National Technical Advisory Group for Immunization (NTAGI) has recommended introduction of HPV Vaccine in the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) with a one-time catch-up for 9-14 year-old adolescent girls followed by routine introduction at 9 years.
Meanwhile, on the sidelines of the event, responding to a query from ETHealthworld regarding the concerns raised by rare disease patients over the delay in the rollout of ₹974 crore assistance directed by the Delhi High Court last year, the health secretary said that the court ruling outlined the approach for providing funds and the financial assistance is available at the ‘notified 12 Centres of Excellence’ (CoEs), where individuals with rare diseases can seek help and avail other benefits under an ongoing government treatment scheme.
