Health Ministry Addresses HPV Vaccine Concerns

Five students experienced mild symptoms, including abdominal pain, nausea, and headaches, which the ministry attributed to common anxiety-related reactions that pose no long-term harm. 

The ministry reassured parents of the vaccine's safety and its effectiveness in reducing cervical cancer rates since its introduction in 2017. 

“Cervical cancer remains one of the most common cancers among women in Sri Lanka, and the HPV vaccine is the most effective method of preventing it. The spokesperson highlighted that the vaccine, which was introduced into the national vaccination program in 2017, plays a crucial role in protecting the future health of Sri Lankan women by reducing the risk of both genital warts and most cases of cervical cancer,” the Ministry of Health stated in their media release. 

The Ministry stated that all affected students received prompt medical care and are currently in stable condition. 

A formal investigation into the incident has been initiated, and the ministry urges parents to trust the HPV vaccine's protective benefits and ensure their children complete the full dosage for optimal health.