Public Health Minister Chonlanan Srikaew has announced an ambitious plan to provide free HPV vaccines to one million Thai women within the next 100 days. This initiative is part of the Ministry of Public Health’s Quick Wins project, which aims to achieve significant milestones in a short period of time.
The vaccination program, originally launched in 2018, was designed to maximize cervical cancer prevention in Thailand. However, due to the pandemic, the program was temporarily suspended, leaving many young girls without access to the necessary HPV vaccine.
With the resumption of the program, at least one million doses of the HPV vaccine will be administered to Thai women aged 11 to 20. This age group was specifically chosen to ensure that these young women receive the vaccine during the crucial early years of potential exposure to the human papillomavirus.
To expedite the process, the Public Health Department will collaborate with the Department of Disease Control to fast-track the development of vaccination guidelines. Meanwhile, the Provincial Public Health Office will assess the number of target groups, ensuring that the vaccine is distributed efficiently.
To further support the effort, the National Health Security Office will be granted the authority to accelerate the procurement of additional HPV vaccines, ensuring an adequate supply for the program.
The decision to prioritize providing the vaccine to young girls is a critical step in protecting women from cervical cancer. By administering the vaccine during adolescence, the risk of developing cervical cancer in the future can be significantly reduced.
The initiative has been met with positive responses, as it not only protects the individual but also serves as a preventative measure for the broader population. Cervical cancer is a significant health issue in Thailand, and this program is a step in the right direction towards combating it.
With the country’s commitment to cervical cancer prevention and the resumption of the free HPV vaccination program, Thai women aged 11 to 20 can now access the vaccine they missed during the pandemic. This initiative will undoubtedly contribute to the overall well-being and health of the nation.
