What is HPV Vaccine?
The HPV vaccine protects against the human papillomavirus types that cause most cervical cancer. Pakistan introduced it on 15 September 2025 as a free, single dose for girls aged 9–14.
Dosage and schedule
One dose for girls aged 9–14 in Pakistan's programme. WHO accepts a one- or two-dose schedule for this age group.
Who it's for
- Girls aged 9–14. The 2025 campaign covered Punjab, Sindh, Islamabad and Azad Kashmir; Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is planned for 2026 and Balochistan and Gilgit-Baltistan for 2027.
- After the campaigns, Pakistan plans to offer it routinely to 9-year-old girls.
Benefits
- Prevents infection with the HPV types that cause most cervical cancers.
- WHO advises that one dose gives girls aged 9–14 strong, lasting protection.
- Works best when given before any exposure to HPV, which is why it's offered at 9–14.
Diseases prevented
- Cervical cancer
- HPV infection
Common reactions
- Pain, redness or swelling in the arm.
- Headache, mild fever or tiredness.
- Some teenagers feel faint just after an injection; sitting down for 15 minutes afterwards helps.
Precautions
- Tell the vaccinator about any severe allergy, including to a previous dose.
- The vaccine isn't given during pregnancy; tell the vaccinator if this applies.
When to seek help
- Seek care for difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or any reaction that worries you.