The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which protects against cervical cancer, was introduced into Senegal’s national routine immunization program at the end of October by Senegal President, Macky Sall. The first vaccine was delivered during a high level event attended by the First Lady of Senegal and 14 other First Ladies from the African continent.
The vaccines, funded by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and the Government of Senegal, will reach close to 200,000 nine-year-old girls across the country this year and a further 900,000 girls aged 11-14 years next year. UNICEF, WHO and partners will work on implementation alongside the Senegal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and the Ministry of National Education.