One Dose, Lifelong Shield: Gauteng Rolls Out HPV Vaccination for Girls

The Gauteng Department of Health has kicked off its latest HPV vaccination campaign, urging parents and guardians to make sure their daughters don’t miss out on the single-dose jab that protects against cervical cancer.

The campaign starts on 8 September 2025 and runs until 7 November 2025, targeting girls aged 9 to 15 in Grade 5, as well as Grade 6 and 7 pupils who missed the vaccine in previous years. Vaccinations will be offered at private schools, public schools that were left out last year, and special schools.

Why this vaccine matters

The department is using Cervarix, a vaccine proven to protect against HPV types 16 and 18. These two strains cause more than 70% of cervical cancer cases.

Officials stress that one shot is enough for lifelong protection, making this a critical health intervention for girls before they turn 15.

Cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer deaths among women in South Africa, with thousands of new cases diagnosed every year. Early vaccination has been identified by health experts worldwide as the best prevention tool.

Strong uptake, but consent is key

Last year’s campaign recorded a 91.7% vaccination rate, but some girls missed out due to age or absence. This year’s drive includes a catch-up plan for them.

The department has asked parents to return signed consent forms quickly. Pupils aged 12 and older can legally give their own assent if parental consent is not available.

Alongside the HPV jab, Grade 5 pupils of both genders will also get a Tdap booster (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis) to maintain immunity against childhood diseases.

More than vaccines: integrated school health

This vaccination drive forms part of the Integrated School Health Programme (ISHP). In addition to vaccines, pupils will benefit from health checks covering vision, hearing, oral health, nutrition, deworming, and onsite services.

Parents and schools needing more details can contact their district coordinators in Johannesburg, Tshwane, Ekurhuleni, Sedibeng, and the West Rand.

{Source: TheCitizen}

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