In a groundbreaking initiative, Government of Bangladesh (GoB) in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, UNHCR, and other health partners, launched a Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign in the Rohingya camps. This campaign aims to provide free vaccines to female students from Grade 5 to Grade 9, and out-of-school female adolescents aged 10 to 14 years, marking a significant step toward preventing cervical cancer within the camps.
This campaign is part of a broader nationwide effort across seven Divisions in Bangladesh from October 24 to November 28, 2024. HPV vaccination is a critical component of the WHO Global Strategy to accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer as a public health problem. Globally, implementing this strategy could prevent 74 million cases of cervical cancer and save the lives of over 60 million girls and women in the next century[1].
"I am pleased to launch this campaign for Rohingya adolescent girls. I encourage everyone involved to address any queries or concerns from vaccine recipients, counter misinformation, and handle any cases with adverse reactions with care and empathy. Please engage more with religious leaders to raise awareness within the community."
- Dr S. M. Abdullah Al Murad, Line Director MNCAH
Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide, with approximately 660,000 new cases and 350,000 deaths in 2022, 90% of which occur in low- and middle-income countries[2]. In Bangladesh, it is the second most common cancer among women. HPV vaccines are essential for preventing cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases, particularly in settings like the Rohingya camps, where access to regular healthcare, including cervical cancer screening and treatment, is limited. Vaccination in such settings not only lowers individual risks but also reduces the long-term healthcare burden, supporting global efforts to eliminate health disparities.
The HPV campaign in the Rohingya camps ran from December 3 to 11, 2024, targeting a population of 63,637 girls across 33 camps and Bhasan Char. "This is the first-ever HPV vaccination campaign conducted in a refugee camp setting globally. Its success is a valuable contribution to both Bangladesh and the international community," noted Dr Rajendra Bohara, Team Lead IVD, WHO Bangladesh.
A total of 68 health facilities (55 in Ukhiya and 13 in Teknaf) were selected for the HPV campaign based on several criteria, including Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI), management capacity, accessibility, catchment area, vaccine transport, geographical location, and waiting room space. Over 2,000 team members were deployed, including 1,600 Community Health Workers, 150 Community Health Supervisors, 68 facility managers, 136 AEFI managers, and 136 vaccinators. Registration was facilitated by UNHCR using health card barcodes and Family Counting Numbers (FCN).
To ensure the success of the campaign, effective risk communication and community awareness were crucial. Community leaders, including Majhis and Imams, played an active role, and awareness sessions were conducted with mothers to foster trust and acceptance of the vaccine. WHO-recruited Health Field
Monitors (HFM) coordinated daily monitoring through Rapid Convenience Monitoring (RCM) to identify gaps and challenges. They ensured daily vaccination reporting, managed vaccines and logistics, tracked misinformation or rumours, and facilitated vaccination for girls who had missed the initial sessions.
"I am happy to take the vaccine. It will protect me from cancer and other health issues caused by HPV." Said Roshni Akter, an 11.5-year-old vaccine recipient from Camp 5.
The campaign targeted 63,637 girls, according to the UNHCR fact sheet from November 2024. After five main campaign days and two mop-up days, 69,888 girls were vaccinated, surpassing the target. This included 57,165 (109.6%) in Ukhiya and 12,723 (111%) in Teknaf. The higher-than-expected coverage is attributed to potential inaccuracies in the denominator and a recent influx of new arrivals in the camps. The HPV campaign in the Rohingya Camps incorporated lessons learned from the nationwide campaign to address issues in micro-planning and reporting, effectively tackling vaccine-related rumours, misinformation, and fears.
The HPV vaccination campaign in the Rohingya camps marks a significant step toward addressing health inequities in vulnerable populations. Investing in preventive healthcare measures, such as the HPV vaccine, can profoundly transform the lives of at-risk girls. By providing access to this life-saving intervention, WHO and its partners are safeguarding their health and empowering them, fostering a healthier and more resilient community.
For further information about this publication, please contact Terence Ngwabe Che, External Communication Officer, WHO Bangladesh, Cox's Bazar Sub Office, at [email protected].