Protect Your Daughter with an HPV Vaccination

During October Western Cape Government Health carers will visit schools to vaccinate Grade 4 girls against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the most common cause of cervical cancer in women.

With your consent, they can vaccinate your daughter so she can be protected against cervical cancer in the future.  

What is HPV?

HPV is a viral infection that can cause cervical cancer, the second most common female cancer after breast cancer.

Why is it important for my daughter to get vaccinated?

• Vaccinations will take place between 29 September and 31 October 2014.
• 70% of cervical cancers are caused by HPV.
• Cervical cancer is the second most common female cancer after breast cancer, accounting for one of eight deaths in women.
• The HPV vaccine is most effective if administrated at nine years of age.

How can I prevent it?

Fortunately, with your permission, your daughter can be vaccinated against HPV because Western Cape Government Health will provide free vaccinations to all Grade 4 girls aged nine years and older who attend a public school.

The school will provide a consent form. All it takes is your signature to ensure your daughter is protected. The vaccine has almost no or only very mild side effects and is completely safe.

Colleen Adams gave permission to have her Grade 4 daughter, Jordan-Lynne vaccinated during the first round of vaccinations earlier this year.

“I encourage all parents to have their daughters vaccinated. It’s a great initiative from the Department of Health to visit schools and inform both parents and learners about the importance of the HPV vaccination.  It’s up to us to protect our daughters against future sickness and diseases,” she said.

What you should know about HPV and cervical cancer?

Visit our FAQ page for more information