Mali is launching a major campaign to protect girls from cervical cancer by providing a vaccine that helps them stay healthy.
Cervical cancer is a disease that affects the lower part of the uterus in women, often caused by a virus called HPV, which is transmitted through intimate contact. When this virus remains in the body for a long time, it can damage cells and cause cancer.
To prevent this, Mali has decided to vaccinate all 10-year-old girls. This vaccine helps the body defend itself against HPV and reduces the risk of developing this disease later in life. In 2024, the goal is to vaccinate nearly 270,000 girls, including those living in remote areas or who are not in school. Teams will travel across the country to ensure everyone receives this important protection.
With support from the Global Alliance for Vaccines (GAVI), many countries, including Mali, can now protect their young girls from this cancer.
