HPV vaccine programme being rolled out

The provincial Department of Health and Wellness is encouraging parents and caregivers to allow young girls to be vaccinated to protect them against the human papillomavirus (HPV).

According to the department, the HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer. Its school health teams will be visiting public and special needs schools until the end of March to administer the single-dose HPV vaccine to eligible girls aged nine and older. 

Provincial health department spokesperson, Natalie Watlington says this vaccine is safe, free, and highly effective, “a simple step that can make a lifetime of difference.”

Ms Watlington says since the school-based HPV vaccination programme was introduced in 2014, the health department has administered over 350 000 vaccines, reaching nearly 1 200 schools annually in the Western Cape. “This reflects the strong support from parents and communities who recognise the life-saving impact of vaccinations,” she says.

She says parents and caregivers would have received consent forms and information from schools about the HPV vaccine’s benefits. “If you haven’t signed the form yet, we urge you to do so, your decision today could help protect your daughter and a young girl in your care for decades to come."

Health and Wellness MEC, Mireille Wenger, encouraged all parents and caregivers to take advantage of this opportunity. “The HPV vaccine protects girls by ensuring they remain safe from cervical cancer later in life. Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among South African women and, heartbreakingly, the one that claims the most lives," said Ms Wenger.

“By vaccinating our young girls today, we are taking a powerful step towards a future where cervical cancer is one less thing for our women to worry about.” 

The provincial health co-ordinator for schools, Sister Colleen van Dieman says while they administer the HPV vaccine for girls, during this cycle there will also be a vaccination against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis which will be offered to Grade 5 boys and girls. 

“Diphtheria is a contagious disease, causing severe swelling of the nose and throat. If you or anybody in your family is unwell with any of the signs and symptoms, please seek help immediately at your clinic.”

She says the symptoms of diphtheria include sore throat, mild fever and chills. 

Sister Van Dieman says diphtheria can be a serious illness, especially in children, if it is not treated quickly and a vaccination can prevent it. 

“If educators or parents have any concerns, I implore you to reach out to the school nurse, doctor or healthcare worker. As a parent or caregiver, you can call our contact centre on 0860 142 142, between 8am and 8pm and you will be directed to the right information so that you can make the best educated decision for your young loved one.”