VIENTIANE, Dec. 17 (Xinhua) -- Laos has launched a human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign to protect young girls from cervical cancer, highlighting the country's ongoing efforts to strengthen public health, particularly among youth.
Laos has launched the 2025 HPV vaccination campaign, providing free HPV vaccines to girls aged 10 nationwide.
At the campaign launch in Lao capital Vientiane in early December, Deputy Governor of Vientiane Phouvong Vongkhamsao praised international partners for their support, emphasizing the growing role of health and disease prevention in reducing maternal and child morbidity and mortality from vaccine-preventable diseases.
Each year, about 320 Lao women develop cervical cancer. The Lao government has long promoted women's health, ensuring that girls and women have access to proper healthcare.
"I am grateful that the Lao government provides free HPV vaccination, giving all girls the right to protection. I believe this is a significant effort to enhance public health services in Laos," a father of two daughters in Vientiane told Xinhua on Wednesday.
He shared his concerns about his children, emphasizing that access to free vaccination should be a basic right for all children.
"I want them to grow up healthy and strong, and I know cervical cancer is one of the most serious diseases affecting women. When the time comes, I will make sure both of my daughters receive the vaccine as soon as they are eligible," he added.
Today, many Lao women recognize the critical role of HPV vaccination and believe that all relevant sectors should actively promote it to prevent more serious illnesses in the future.
Thip, a 32-year-old woman, emphasized the importance of the vaccine in Laos and expressed her support for the government's initiative to provide it for free.
In the past, vaccines for diseases like cervical cancer were not easily accessible, and many people were not aware of them, she said.
She added that preventing a disease through vaccination is something everyone deserves.
"The vaccination campaign is not just about giving the shot. It's about teaching families and communities why it matters," she said.
A 28-year-old office worker in Vientiane said she has been following the HPV vaccination campaign closely and is very supportive.
"I encourage everyone to take this seriously and bring their daughters to get vaccinated. No one should miss this opportunity. This campaign shows that the government cares about youth health, and now it is up to us to act and protect the next generation," she said.
Lao medical officials said the HPV vaccine is highly effective and safe. Following the launch of the campaign in Vientiane, medical teams will visit 473 primary schools across the city to vaccinate 8,023 targeted 10-year-old girls.
The Lao Ministry of Health has reaffirmed its commitment to equitable immunization, pledging to work with development partners to overcome challenges and ensure that every child in the country is protected from preventable diseases. ■