South Africa’s HPV Vaccination Drive Could Save Thousands of Lives

Running until 9 October 2026, the campaign offers a free single dose of the Cervarix vaccine to eligible Grade 5 girls aged nine years and older at public and independent schools across Gauteng.

Human papillomavirus, commonly known as HPV, can affect both women and men. Certain high-risk strains can cause several cancers, with HPV types 16 and 18 responsible for more than 70% of cervical cancer cases.

Cervarix protects against these two high-risk strains. A single dose provides effective protection against HPV infection and can significantly reduce a girl’s risk of developing cervical cancer later in life.

The value of South Africa’s school vaccination programme is already evident. Research published in The Lancet Global Health found that the prevalence of HPV types 16 and 18 fell by 83% among young women following the introduction of school-based vaccination. The reduction included young women living with HIV.

During Gauteng’s 2025/26 campaign, more than 80,000 girls received the vaccine. However, 24,327 consent forms were not returned and learner absenteeism on vaccination days resulted in a further 1,830 learners missing the opportunity.

Misinformation and vaccine hesitancy created additional challenges for vaccination teams.

No learner younger than 12 will be vaccinated without a signed consent form from a parent or legal guardian. Learners aged 12 and older may legally consent to medical treatment when they have sufficient maturity and understand its benefits and possible risks. The department still encourages parents and caregivers to remain actively involved.

The vaccine may be administered alongside other services offered through the Integrated School Health Programme, including health screenings, deworming and age-appropriate booster vaccinations.

Parents should read the information supplied by their child’s school, complete the consent form and return it without delay. They should also confirm the vaccination date with the school to help ensure their child is present.

With cervical cancer remaining a major health threat to South African women, timely vaccination offers protection long before exposure to the virus may occur. Regular cervical cancer screening will remain important later in life, even for women who received the vaccine.