Vaccination Week Kicks Off in Northern Cyprus: Here’s What You Need to Know

Northern Cyprus is observing Vaccination Week from April 21 to 27, and for the first time, the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine has been officially added to the national immunization schedule.

In a statement released to mark the occasion, the Ministry of Health confirmed that the HPV vaccine will now be administered routinely. This year’s global theme, set by the World Health Organization, is “Vaccination for All — A Possibility for Humanity.”

The ministry highlighted the vital importance of vaccination in protecting public health and reminded citizens that all childhood vaccines are provided free of charge at government hospitals and public health centers.

Available Vaccines in Northern Cyprus:

• Hepatitis B: The first dose should be given to all newborns shortly after birth and before hospital discharge. The second dose follows at one month, and the third at six months.

• Combined Vaccine (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Acellular Pertussis, Haemophilus influenzae type B, and Inactivated Poliovirus): Administered in four doses at 2, 4, 6, and 18 months. A booster shot is given between ages 4 and 6.

• Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV): Administered at 6 and 18 months.

• Pneumococcal Vaccine: Given at 2, 4, and 12 months.

• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella): First dose at 12 months, second dose between ages 4 and 6.

• Chickenpox Vaccine: First dose at 12 months, second dose between ages 4 and 6.

• Hepatitis A: First dose at 18 months, second dose at 24 months.

• Reduced-Dose Diphtheria and Tetanus Vaccine: Given at age 10.

The Ministry also confirmed that planning has been completed for the regular administration of the HPV vaccine, with vaccinations officially starting this year.

Vaccinations for children are available free of charge at public health centers affiliated with the Department of Primary Health Care, as well as at state hospitals.

Each school year, a special vaccination campaign is launched for 1st and 5th-grade students in primary schools across Northern Cyprus. Mobile health teams visit schools to ensure children receive any missing vaccines.

The Ministry is urging all citizens to take part in the vaccination program to protect both themselves and those around them from infectious diseases.