The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness has encouraged parents to support the upcoming HPV school immunisation drive, which commences on 2 February 2026.

School health nurses will visit schools until 27 March to offer a single-dose HPV vaccine at no cost to Grade 5 girls aged 9 years and older.

The Department says by supporting this programme, parents and caregivers can ensure that their daughters are better protected in adulthood against one of the most preventable cancers affecting women – cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer remains one of the most common cancers in South Africa, and most cases are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).

The HPV vaccine, given in early adolescence, helps stop these infections long before they can cause harm.

Immunising at this age is recommended worldwide because children have a strong immune response, making the vaccine most effective when given at this age.

This immunisation programme has been in effect in South Africa since 2014, with over 400, 000 girls receiving the vaccine in public, independent/private and special schools across the Western Cape since then.

Crucially, school health nurses can only immunise young people with completed consent forms.

Cristal Solomons, who oversees the rollout of the campaign in the Western Cape, says parents and caregivers are important partners in this.

“The HPV vaccine is one of our strongest tools to prevent cervical cancer. Giving it to girls at this age offers long-lasting protection that can save lives later on.”

“Our school nurses are adequately trained to provide the vaccination and will only provide it with your permission, through a signed consent form.”

What parents can do

• Look out for the HPV consent form from school
• Review and sign it
• Return it to your child’s school
• Contact your clinic or school health team with any questions

More information on immunisation is available HERE.