In recent years, negative press and misinformation around vaccines have undermined public confidence, slowed uptake, and left many vulnerable to preventable diseases. With Ghana preparing to introduce the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine into its routine immunization programme in October 2025, health authorities are prioritizing accurate and responsible reporting to ensure all eligible girls receive the life-saving vaccine.
To support this effort, WHO Ghana, in collaboration with the Ghana Health Service (GHS), organised a media sensitisation session for journalists nationwide. The session emphasised the media’s critical role in shaping public perception, countering misinformation, and promoting vaccine acceptance.
Dr. Fiona Braka, WHO Representative to Ghana, highlighted the indispensable role of journalists in public health. She stressed that the media can build trust, correct misconceptions, and empower families to protect their daughters, noting that the HPV vaccine presents a key opportunity to prevent cervical cancer. Dr. Selorm Kutsoati, EPI Manager at GHS, added that the media’s influence will be central to the success of the rollout by helping parents understand the vaccine’s importance.
The sensitisation also provided a platform for journalists to reflect on how the training would shape their reporting. Afia Amakwah of Adom TV said the session equipped her with the facts to address misinformation and ensure her coverage builds public confidence. Joshua Mensah from GHOne TV underscored the need for ongoing collaboration, noting that health communication extends beyond the newsroom and requires continuous engagement to ensure accurate information reaches communities.
Overall, the meeting reinforced that Ghana’s HPV vaccine rollout will rely not only on health workers but also on the media’s ability to disseminate accurate information, combat misinformation, and encourage vaccine uptake across the country.
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