27 April 2015
Australian High Commission supports launch of Human Papillomavirus Vaccine
The Australian Government today supported the Ministry of Health and Medical Services to launch the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine in Solomon Islands.
The launch of the first phase of the HPV vaccine rollout will see an estimated 6,500 nine to twelve year old girls in Honiara City Council and Isabel Province receive vaccinations.
Speaking at the launch of the HPV vaccine, the Australian High Commission’s Minister Counsellor, Sue Connell, said Australia is proud to be supporting its rollout.
“Australia is proud to be working with the Solomon Islands Government, to support the rollout of the HPV vaccine to Solomon Islands.
“The vaccine will be key to protecting the health of Solomon Islands women and girls from HPV and the serious illnesses it causes, including cervical cancer.
“We have already seen positive health outcomes in other countries where the HPV vaccine has been launched. We hope to replicate those results here in Solomon Islands.”
Cervical cancer, which can be caused by HPV, is currently the largest cause of premature death due to cancer among women in Solomon Islands.
Immunisation with the HPV vaccine protects against infection by HPV as well as the diseases it has been known to cause, such as cervical cancer.
The launch of the first phase of the HPV vaccine in Solomon Islands is being led by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, with support by key partners, including GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance, the Australian Government and the Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation.
Australia is providing approximately SBD$3 million funding for maternal and child health activities in 2015 which includes our support for the launch of the first phase of the HPV vaccine rollout in Solomon Islands.