5,658 Girls Vaccinated Against Cervical Cancer in Ballari District

The Health and Family Welfare Department in Ballari district has launched a comprehensive vaccination campaign to protect adolescent girls from cervical cancer. As of May 11, 2026, 5,658 girls aged 14 have received the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine free of charge. The drive, which commenced on March 11, is scheduled to continue for 90 days with a total target of vaccinating 16,495 eligible girls across the district. District Health and Family Welfare Officer Yalla Ramesh Babu emphasized that administering the vaccine at age 14 is a highly effective preventive measure, potentially reducing cervical cancer risk by up to 99%. He urged parents to ignore misinformation and rumors circulating on social media regarding the vaccine's safety. Officials confirmed that no adverse effects have been reported among vaccinated children so far. Parents are required to accompany their daughters and present birth certificates during vaccination. Progress varies by taluk, with Ballari taluk recording 2,324 vaccinations out of a target of 7,578. The department encourages residents to contact nearby government hospitals or health centers for further information and vaccination services.