Introduction during Covid-19: implications and strategies to tackle interruptions. The case of Cameroon

This presentation from Cameroon outlined the challenges and strategies for HPV vaccine delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic. The vaccine was introduced into the routine immunization schedule in October 2020, targeting 9-year-old girls. However, early rollout faced significant barriers: insecurity in three regions, low community awareness, widespread misinformation, limited communication, and strong resistance from some religious leaders and school authorities. Despite this, Cameroon integrated HPV vaccination into routine and intensified immunization efforts, especially in conflict-affected regions, where community-based and door-to-door strategies improved coverage. Interestingly, these conflict regions outperformed others due to focused outreach. By 2021, this approach was scaled nationally. However, second-dose coverage remained below 5%. To boost coverage, Cameroon plans to introduce vaccination for boys, move to a single-dose schedule, and reinforce communication via faith-based and professional networks. Stronger partnerships with the Ministry of Basic Education are also being pursued to reach more eligible children through schools. A nationwide campaign is planned to further improve uptake.

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