Nepal is launching a nationwide HPV vaccination program targeting 350,000 Grade 6 girls to prevent cervical cancer, with a single-dose schedule this year and awareness campaigns underway to ensure participation.
Nepal Verified News
Tue Dec 23 2025
The Government of Nepal will soon launch a nationwide vaccination campaign to prevent cervical cancer using the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. Scheduled to begin in the last week of Magh and continue through the first week of Falgun, the program aims to reach around 350,000 girls aged 10 years studying in Grade 6.
The Ministry of Health and Population, in coordination with the Family Welfare Division and technical support from UNICEF Nepal, will oversee the initiative. Dr. Abhiyan Gautam, Chief of the Child Health and Immunization Section, confirmed that preparations are in place while considering potential disruptions from elections and festivals.
This year, the program will administer a single dose of the vaccine, as health experts say even one dose is effective, unlike last year when girls from Grades 6 to 10 received two doses. Cervical cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women in Nepal, primarily due to HPV infection. Government data estimates that four women die daily from this disease, prompting ongoing awareness campaigns to ensure maximum participation.
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