The deadline for completing the cervical cancer vaccination programme in the State has been extended by three months till August, said Minister for Health, Family Welfare and Medical Education Satya Kumar Yadav.

In a statement on Monday, June 8, the Minister said the extension follows fresh instructions issued by the Union government. The programme launched in February, was initially scheduled to be completed within a three-month deadline. This has been extended till August.

The HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccine is being administered to 14-year-old girls in the State. Of the 3,45,000 girls identified, 2,71,071 have been vaccinated so far. None reported adverse reaction to the vaccine, the Minister said.

The State received 381,780 vaccine doses from the Central government in two phases. With the new academic year beginning, officials have been instructed to ensure that the remaining girls are vaccinated. The Minister also directed officials to raise awareness about the importance of vaccination against cervical cancer among girls.

Region-wise, Rayalaseem districts have performed well, especially the districts of Kurnool, YSR Kadapa, Nandyal, and also Kakinada and Palnadu. However, lower vaccination has been reported from the districts of Polavaram, Alluri Sitharama Raju, Parvathipuram Manyam, Annamayya, Anakapalli, according to a press release from the department.