LIFESTYLE NEWS - More than 3000 South African women die from cervical cancer every year.
Certain strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) causes cervical cancer, therefore the National Department of Health has introduced the HPV vaccine.
Although the vaccine is available worldwide, it has previously only been available in the private industry in South Africa. Since 2014 Government has rolled out HPV vaccination in the public sector to all grade 4 school girls.
HPV is a viral infection that can cause cervical cancer. This vaccination prevents the infection of HPV in girls and protects them against developing cancer-causing HPV in adulthood.
All grade 4 girls from 9 years and older in public and special education schools will be vaccinated via the school-health system.
The vaccination is administered by injection in two doses. The vaccine does not promote sexual promiscuity but will ensure that when girls reach adulthood they will be protected from developing cancer caused by HPV.
Parents must sign consent to ensure that their daughter receives the vaccination.
Make sure your daughter is at school when the immunisation team comes. Girls who were absent during the first round, or who turned 9 years old, will be able to receive their first dose during this round and their second dose in 2016.
Facts about cancer of the cervix in South Africa:
- Cancer of the cervix is the second most prevalent cancer in women in South Africa.
- Approximately 3000 women die annually due to cervical cancer.
- HPV is 100% responsible for cervical cancer – the most virulent strains of HPV are 16 and 18, and it accounts for 70% of all cervical cancers.
- Cervarix® is the vaccination that will be used. To provide optimal cover, two doses needs to be administered.
- Girls must receive BOTH dosages to ensure effectivity. If a girl did not receive the first dose during the first round of 2015, she may receive the vaccination during the second round in August.
- The vaccine is most effective if administered at 9 years of age.
- There are almost no or only very mild side effects.
- The safety of the vaccination has been verified.
