Dili, Timor-Leste: In a significant milestone for Timor-Leste, Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao launched the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine into the country's routine immunization program on July 19. This crucial advancement in protecting women and girls against cervical cancer was made possible with the support of the World Health Organization (WHO) Timor-Leste, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance, and the Government of Australia (DFAT).
At the launch function, five girls received the vaccine. In addition to Prime Minister Gusmao, notable attendees included Vice Minister of Health Sr. Jose Dos Reis Magno, WHO Representative Dr Arvind Mathur, Australian Ambassador Caitlin Wilson, and UNICEF Representative Patrizia DiGiovanni. The historic event was held at the Presidential Palace in Dili during a National Health Exhibition organized by WHO TLS in preparation for the National Health Day.
Alisia da Silva, a bright-eyed 12-year-old from EBC Farol, was among the very first girls in the entire country and her generation to receive the HPV vaccine on the launch day, symbolizing a new era of healthcare for Timor-Leste’s young women. Initially hesitant and frightened, Alisia overcame her fear of needles after her teacher explained the risks of cervical cancer and the benefits of the vaccine. Alisia’s message to the girls of Timor-Leste is clear: "Don't be afraid to get the HPV vaccine. It can protect us from cervical cancer, which poses a serious threat to women's health."
To further promote the campaign, more young girls from the Ermera municipal corporation were prepared to receive the vaccine during Timor-Leste’s National Health Day celebration on July 22, in the presence of community members and dignitaries.
“Single dose HPV vaccination offers solid protection against cervical cancer and is safe and effective,” said Dr Arvind Mathur, WHO Representative. He mentioned that the introduction of the HPV vaccine is significant milestone not only in the journey of immunization program in Timor-Leste but also to their commitment for preventing cervical cancer. “A well-informed and trained health workforce in administering the vaccine is key to increasing the uptake of the vaccine,” he added.
The campaign is crucial for Timor-Leste, where cervical cancer is a growing concern. The country has an annual rate of 10 cervical cancer cases and 6 deaths per 100,000 women, with 60% of diagnosed cases being advanced. With support from GAVI, 41,100 doses of the HPV vaccine have been made available for the introductory phase. An additional 38,370 doses, sourced with support from the Government of Australia, will be used for the catch-up campaign targeting girls aged 12-14 years.
WHO teams extensively trained healthcare providers at all levels and engaged with teachers for informational sessions at schools and communities. Nearly 1,700 health workers across national, district, and institutional levels were trained on various aspects related to the rollout of the vaccination drive over three months. The nationwide campaign is set to roll out on August 8, even as trainings and capacity building is underway.