A prominent actress in the Kannywood film industry, Mansurah Isah, has appealed to parents and guardians to consider allowing their girls to receive the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which can protect them from cervical and other forms of cancers.
In a recent interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, the actress, who hails from Kano and is also a scriptwriter and producer, highlighted the significance of the HPV vaccine, emphasizing that it is now being offered free of charge.
Isah, who is a mother of four, revealed that she recently took her only biological daughter to receive the vaccine, adding that this is the first time it is being administered without a cost involved. Previously, the vaccine used to range from N40,000 to N60,000.
“As an actress, entrepreneur, humanitarian, and philanthropist, I implore individuals to recognize that the HPV vaccine is free of charge, and our girls, ladies, and women should take advantage of this opportunity,” Isah stated.
The actress affirmed that the vaccine is essential for the prevention of cervical cancer, known in Hausa as “Cutar Sankarar Mahaifa.” She shared a personal anecdote about a friend’s grandmother who was recently diagnosed with cervical cancer, emphasizing the seriousness of the disease.
Isah passionately urged all ladies and women to make use of the free vaccine, urging them to prioritize their health and the well-being of their daughters and mothers. “You don’t have to pay for it,” she emphasized.
Addressing misconceptions about HPV leading to infertility, Isah dismissed such claims as fake news and propaganda propagated by individuals looking for financial gain. She urged the public not to heed negative propaganda and instead prioritize their health.
In a bid to instill confidence in others, Isah revealed that she recorded a video of her daughter receiving the vaccine. She explained that by allowing her own biological daughter to receive the vaccine, she wanted to show others that they should not hesitate to do the same.
“It’s not just my biological daughter,” Isah shared. “I have three adopted girls, and before I came to Abuja, I directed them to visit the nearest health center and get the HPV vaccine.”
The actress concluded by encouraging everyone to take advantage of this opportunity to protect themselves and their loved ones by embracing the HPV vaccine.
By Mansurah Isah, NAN
