Big cities lag in HPV vaccination drive:Health dept warns of salary increment halt, issues notice to CMHOs

The Health Department has taken serious note of the slow progress in the HPV vaccination campaign in major cities and issued show-cause notices to the concerned Chief Medical and Health Officers (CMHOs). The notices cite significant shortfalls in achieving vaccination targets and term the performance as a case of serious negligence. The department warned that failure to provide a satisfactory response could result in disciplinary action, including withholding annual salary increments. Bhopal and Indore among worst performers The move comes after a report highlighted that major cities in the state, particularly Bhopal and Indore, were lagging far behind their vaccination targets. Following the report, the Health Department initiated action and sought explanations from responsible officials. Notice issued by Commissioner’s office The show-cause notices were issued by the Commissioner’s Office of the Public Health and Medical Education Department. One such notice was sent to Bhopal CMHO, Dr. Manish Sharma, by the Regional Director of Health Services. According to the notice, under the HPV vaccination campaign launched on February 28, 2026, Bhopal district was assigned a target of vaccinating 28,963 adolescent girls. However, even after more than a month, only 4,278 girls have been vaccinated—just 14.77% of the target. The department described this as extremely poor performance and a serious lapse in duty. Allegations of poor monitoring and supervision The notice clearly states that the CMHO failed to comply with instructions from senior officials and showed laxity in implementing the campaign. It highlights deficiencies in monitoring, supervision, and timely execution, terming it as indifference toward official responsibilities. The department also noted that such negligence has adversely impacted district- and state-level achievements under the national immunization programme. Warning of disciplinary action Dr. Manish Sharma has been directed to submit a reply within seven days. The notice clearly states that failure to provide a satisfactory explanation within the stipulated time will lead to unilateral action, including the possibility of withholding one annual increment. About the HPV vaccination campaign The HPV vaccination campaign aims to protect girls aged 14 to 15 years from cervical cancer. The campaign is to be completed within a 90-day period, making timely achievement of targets crucial. Given the slow progress in a major district like the state capital, the department has treated the issue with urgency and seriousness.