Pune: In a significant step to combat cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers, BJ Medical College, Pune, is offering free Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations to its students. The vaccination drive, began on December 16, 2024, and is reportedly the first mass HPV vaccination campaign initiated by a medical college in Maharashtra.

Campaign Details

Dr. Eknath Pawar, Dean of BJ Medical College, announced the initiative during a press conference attended by Dr. Murlidhar Tambe, Head of the Department of Community Medicine, and Dr. Yallappa Jadhav, Medical Superintendent. The campaign aims to vaccinate 1,000 medical and nursing students.

The vaccination is optional, and priority will initially be given to female students, followed by male students. The Serum Institute of India is providing 3,000 doses of its "Cervavac" vaccine for the campaign.

The Importance of HPV Vaccination

HPV infections are a leading cause of cervical cancer, with rising cases observed in recent years. Dr. Pawar emphasized that the vaccine is beneficial not only for women but also for men, as it can help prevent cancers of the male reproductive system.

Although the HPV vaccine is not yet included in the Central Government's National Immunization Program, it is available in private hospitals. Currently, two doses are administered to individuals aged 9-14, while those aged 15-26 require three doses.

Dr. Pawar stated, "This initiative is critical for medical and nursing students due to their exposure to potential HPV-related health risks. It is the first such campaign by any college in the state to vaccinate its students against HPV."