Health Ministry clarifies HPV vaccine reactions following Kalutara incident

October 20, 2024 at 11:47 AM


The Ministry of Health has addressed concerns raised by a recent media reports regarding adverse events following HPV vaccinations at a primary school in Kalutara.

According to the ministry, the mild symptoms experienced by five students—abdominal pain, nausea, and headaches—were consistent with common anxiety-related reactions and posed no long-term harm.

The ministry reassured parents about the vaccine’s safety, citing its effectiveness in reducing cervical cancer rates since its introduction in 2017.

Additionally, the ministry noted that the students were promptly provided with medical care and are currently in stable condition. As per routine protocol, an investigation has been initiated.