Health
Gauteng Launches Phase 2 of HPV Vaccination Drive in Schools
Phase 2 of the HPV vaccination drive in Gauteng has been rolled out in Gauteng Schools. The Gauteng Department of Health initiated the second phase, targeting all public and special schools across the province. This effort aims to protect young girls against cervical cancer later in life, emphasising the importance of parental involvement in the process.
HPV is a prevalent virus affecting both males and females. Some HPV types are linked to cervical cancer. Research shows HPV types 16 and 18 result in more than 70% of cervical cancer cases.
MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, highlighted that the first dose of the vaccination drive commenced earlier in the year, and approximately 73,000 out of nearly 90,500 eligible girls received the initial HPV vaccine dose.
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Nkomo-Ralehoko urged parents, caregivers, and legal guardians to provide consent for their children’s participation in the vaccination drive, as it plays a crucial role in disease prevention. The vaccine is administered to school girls aged nine and above.
In addition to the HPV vaccination, school health teams will also administer a booster dose of Tetanus Diphtheria (Td) during this period. The Td vaccine acts as a booster and complements previous Td vaccinations at ages six and twelve.
This comprehensive vaccination program aims to increase immunisation coverage among school-going adolescents, ensuring the health and well-being of the community. Consent forms signed at the beginning of the year remain valid for routine health screenings and onsite services provided throughout the year.
The HPV vaccination campaign will run until October 31, striving to protect the future health of young girls in Gauteng.
Source: Phase 2 of HPV vaccination drive rolled out in Gauteng schools
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Picture: Pixabay / Myriams-Fotos
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