Enugu Govt vows to punish individual dissuading residents against HPV Vaccination

To reduce the prevalence of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), the Enugu State Government says it will deal decisively with individuals or groups found dissuading residents from accepting and receiving vaccinations.

According to NAN, Governor Peter Mbah gave the warning on Tuesday while unveiling the introduction of the Human papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination into the Routine Immunisation Schedule in Enugu State.

Mbah, represented by his Deputy, Chief Ifeanyi Ossai, said:” The state government will not fold its arms and watch those who are not medically inclined and knowledgeable on medical issues to rubbish its efforts through social media and other means”.

The unveiling was used to launch a free-of-charge week-long and statewide vaccination of the HPV vaccine (meant to prevent cervical cancer) for girls between the ages of nine and 14, which will run from Oct. 24 to Oct. 29.

“We are monitoring individuals and groups who are in the habit of dissuading our residents in taking preventive healthcare vaccinations meant to better their present and future health.

“As a government, we will not allow those uninformed on health matters to rubbish our huge investment and commitment in the healthcare and well-being of our residents and people.

”We are going to take decisive legal steps on such individuals and groups henceforth. We are monitoring those sabotaging our efforts,” he said.