Burundi : the HPV vaccination campaign concluded, between support and reluctance

SOS Médias Burundi

Bujumbura, May 1, 2026 – The national vaccination campaign against human papillomavirus (HPV) concluded on Thursday, April 30, throughout Burundi. Launched on April 28, the operation targeted girls aged 9 to 14 as part of cervical cancer prevention efforts.

According to the Expanded Program on Immunization, approximately 1,080,000 girls were targeted through schools and health centers for out-of-school children. Health authorities reiterate that this vaccine is most effective when administered before any exposure to the virus responsible for cervical cancer, one of the most common cancers among women in Burundi.

Between awareness and persistent rumors

Throughout the campaign, health authorities faced rumors and hesitancy in some communities. Some families expressed concerns about the effects of the vaccine, including allegations that it could affect the fertility of young girls.

The First Lady firmly rejected these rumors, reiterating that the vaccine had been evaluated and validated by international health experts, including those from the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI), before its introduction in Burundi. In a statement issued on April 29, she called on the population to trust the health authorities and not to succumb to misinformation, emphasizing that vaccination remains an essential tool for preventing cervical cancer.

Coverage still needs strengthening

Despite the awareness efforts conducted by health teams and local authorities, cases of refusal were reported in some areas, linked in particular to misinformation and a lack of access to reliable information.

Parents expressed mistrust, while some teenage girls stated they feared potential side effects, illustrating the ongoing challenges in health communication.

A long-term prevention strategy

Health authorities nevertheless believe this campaign is an important step in the fight against cervical cancer in Burundi. They reiterate that vaccinating adolescent girls, combined with screening and awareness campaigns, remains one of the most effective ways to sustainably reduce cases of the disease.

Evaluations are expected in the coming days to measure the actual coverage of this national campaign and to identify areas requiring increased awareness efforts.