Abstract:
Introduction: Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes cervical cancer, and HPV vaccination
is highly effective in preventing vaccine-targeted HPV infection. However, low HPV vac-
cination coverage in Kisumu County, Kenya, at about 10% for the first dose, highlights
the critical issue of vaccine hesitancy, particularly in low and middle-income countries.
Methods: This study explores the concerns, myths and barriers to HPV vaccine uptake
among adolescent girls (aged 10–14) enrolled at human immune-deficiency virus com-
prehensive care clinics and their parents in Kisumu County. Focused group discussions
were conducted with 48 participants.
Results: Content analysis revealed limited knowledge about the HPV vaccine and wide-
spread misconceptions regarding its safety and efficacy. Financial constraints, injection
fears and negative clinic experiences emerged as additional barriers.
Conclusion: The findings emphasise the role of effective communication strategies,
including engaging parents through written materials and involving them in decision-
making, to dispel myths, provide accurate information and encourage HPV vaccination.
Collaborative efforts with community stakeholders are crucial to improve vaccine cover-
age and ultimately reduce the cervical cancer burden.
