Tajikistan to launch first HPV vaccination for girls 10–14 in October
Month-long campaign aims to prevent cervical cancer, with annual vaccination to become part of routine health program for 10-year-olds
DUSHANBE, Tajikistan (MNTV) — For the first time, Tajikistan will vaccinate girls aged 10 to 14 against the human papillomavirus (HPV) starting October 1, launching a month-long campaign to reduce the country’s high rates of cervical cancer.
After the initial drive ends on October 31, HPV shots will become part of routine immunization for all 10-year-old girls each year.
Independent outlet Asia-Plus reported that the rollout follows a July 24 government decree and will provide free vaccination at local clinics and secondary schools nationwide.
A national commission led by the Deputy Prime Minister will oversee implementation alongside representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, while the Ministry of Health integrates the vaccine into the national schedule and ensures timely supply across regions.
Authorities have also tasked the Committee on Religion, Traditions and Rituals with public outreach to explain the vaccine’s importance and counter misconceptions. Officials say the program is designed to reach both in-school and out-of-school girls so that coverage does not depend on classroom attendance.
HPV is a group of more than 200 viruses, some of which are sexually transmitted and can cause cancer. High-risk strains are linked to cervical, vaginal, vulvar, and anal cancers, as well as cancers of the mouth and throat.
In Tajikistan, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women after breast cancer. Health experts note that the vaccine is most effective when administered before sexual activity begins, allowing the immune system to prepare for potential exposure.
Delivery will combine school-based vaccination with fixed posts at primary care clinics. By sequencing a one-month catch-up campaign with annual routine immunization for new 10-year-olds, Tajikistan aims to significantly curb HPV-related diseases in the coming years while expanding preventive healthcare access across hard-to-reach regions.
The initiative aligns with WHO’s global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer, which calls for vaccinating 90% of girls by age 15 and expanding screening and treatment programs worldwide.
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