The aim of the HPV vaccination campaign is to protect girls from developing cervical cancer (cancer of the mouth of the womb) later in life. Parents, caregivers and legal guardians who have not yet signed the consent form are reminded to do so in order to ensure that their children do not miss out on the HPV vaccination drive.

There are over 200 types of HPV viruses and research has shown that HPV types 16 and 18 account for 70% of cervical cancer cases. The HPV vaccine is very safe and effective in preventing the HPV infection caused by these two HPV strains (type 16 and 18). It is important to note that the HPV vaccine can be safely given together with the current measles vaccination.

A consent form that is signed at the beginning of the year is valid for the whole year. It is important that all parents and guardians tick the boxes on the consent form for their child to be screened and immunised. This consent form will also be used for routine health assessments as part of the Integrated School Health Programme (ISHP).

The ISHP includes provision of health education, eye, ear and oral assessments, catch-up immunisations and deworming, as well as the identification of any other health barriers that can affect a child’s education.

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Issued by the Gauteng Department of Health