Almost 37 000 Grade 5 girls in the Western Cape have received the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in the first half of 2026, a vital measure in the fight against cervical cancer.
As the next school-based vaccination round commences, parents and caregivers are urged to ensure that over 14 000 more eligible learners capitalize on this opportunity to safeguard their futures.
According to recent statistics, a total of 36 841 Grade 5 girls from both public and special schools received the vaccine aimed at preventing cervical cancer, which is the second most prevalent cancer among women in South Africa.
HPV is the leading cause of this disease, making the vaccination crucial for long-term health.
Western Cape Minister of Health and Wellness, Mireille Wenger, has been proactive in encouraging parents to be vigilant for consent forms from their children’s schools and to take decisive action in protecting their daughters.
‘Parents and caregivers do so much every day to protect their children, and this is one more powerful way to protect your daughter’s future,’ Wenger stated.
‘With one signed consent form, you can give her access to a free vaccine that can help prevent a cancer that could threaten her life many years from now.’
From 3 August to 23 September 2026, nurses from the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness will visit various schools to offer both first and catch-up doses of the HPV vaccine at no cost to eligible girls aged 9 and older.
In addition, all Grade 5 learners, both boys and girls in public and private schools, will be offered a Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (TDaP) booster shot. This measure aims to prevent outbreaks while reinforcing the overall school-based vaccination programme, as childhood immunity against these diseases begins to wane.
It’s imperative to note that vaccination will only proceed with the signed consent of parents or caregivers. Minister Wenger understands that there may be hesitations or questions surrounding vaccines, and she has encouraged families to seek credible information. ‘We know that parents and caregivers may have questions about vaccines, and we want you to ask them,’ Wenger emphasised.
‘Speak to our school health teams or visit your local clinic. We want you to feel confident about the decision you are making for your child.’
The HPV vaccine, administered during early adolescence, harnesses the body’s robust immune response, thereby significantly reducing the risk of HPV infections that could lead to cervical cancer.
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Also read:
WC Health Department launches free HPV vaccine campaign for school girls
Picture: Towfiqu barbhuiya / Unsplash
Sibuliso Duba
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