By Charmaine Ndlela
The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has called on parents and guardians to support its latest single-dose human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign, aimed at protecting young girls from cervical cancer.
The campaign runs from 8 September to 7 November 2025 and is being rolled out at schools across the province. Eligible learners include girls aged 9 to 15 in Grade 5, as well as Grade 6 and 7 pupils who missed their vaccinations in previous years.
Provincial health spokesperson Motalatale Modiba assured parents that the HPV vaccine is both safe and effective.
“This life-saving initiative highlights the importance of immunising girls before the age of 15, as early protection significantly reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer later in life,” he said.
He added that the vaccine being administered is proven to protect against HPV types 16 and 18, which are responsible for more than 70% of cervical cancer cases.
“Consent forms are required for participation in the HPV vaccination campaign. Learners aged 12 and older may self-assent,” Modiba explained.
He added: “Vaccinations will be conducted at private primary schools, combined private schools, outstanding public primary schools, and special schools across Gauteng. Grade 5 boys and girls will also receive a booster dose of the Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Acellular Pertussis (Tdap) vaccine.”
The HPV campaign forms part of the Integrated School Health Programme (ISHP), which also provides health screenings for vision, hearing, oral health, nutrition, as well as deworming and other onsite services.
According to the Department of Health, “one shot of the HPV vaccine gives girls lifelong protection against cervical cancer-causing viruses”.
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