13,505 girls in Kozhikode receive HPV vaccine as deadline extended

13,505 girls vaccinated against HPV in Kozhikode

Health department officials confirmed on Monday that 13,505 girls aged up to 14 have been immunised against human papilloma virus (HPV) in Kozhikode district. The figure represents roughly 51% of the state’s target cohort, according to a press release from the department.

School‑based outreach drives progress

Vaccinations have been administered in 169 schools so far, with 1,854 girls receiving the jab on school premises. District Medical Officer L.T. Saritha Kumari said the programme is designed to reach every eligible child, whether through school clinics or the network of government health centres.

"The vaccine is now available at all government health centres," Kumari told reporters, adding that the extension of the deadline will give families additional time to enrol their children.

Deadline extended to the end of the year

Originally slated to finish earlier, the state government has pushed the campaign’s cut‑off date to 31 December 2026. The move is intended to ensure that the remaining half of the target group can complete the two‑dose schedule before the next school year begins.

Why the HPV drive matters

Kerala’s public‑health strategy places a premium on preventive care. By vaccinating girls before they reach adolescence, the health department aims to curb future cases of cervical cancer, a disease that can be largely prevented through early immunisation. The successful rollout in Kozhikode is being presented as a model for other districts, showcasing the state's capacity to mobilise resources quickly and efficiently.

Looking ahead

Officials will monitor uptake closely through the health department’s digital tracking system, which records each dose administered. If the final 49% of the target group comes forward before the new deadline, the state hopes to claim a near‑universal coverage rate for the HPV vaccine in the district.

The campaign’s progress underscores Kerala’s broader commitment to child health and disease prevention, reinforcing the narrative of a well‑functioning public‑service system that delivers essential care to its citizens.

---

Key take‑aways

• 13,505 girls vaccinated (age ≤ 14) – 51% of target
• 1,854 vaccinated in schools, across 169 schools
• Vaccines now free at all government health centres
• Deadline extended to 31 December 2026

The health department will continue public‑awareness drives and coordinate with school authorities to achieve full coverage before year‑end.