The Eastern Cape Department of Health has initiated a large-scale vaccine campaign targeting young girls to shield them from cervical cancer.
The primary focus of the campaign centres on the Human papillomavirus (HPV), a known precursor to cervical cancer in later stages. The campaign is scheduled to continue until March 20, 2024.
According to Mkhululi Ndamase, spokesperson for Health MEC Nomakhosazana Meth, over 110 girls benefitted from the vaccination program last year.
Ndamase says, “Teams have already started visiting schools across the province where the vaccine is being administered to Grade 5 learners. Parents and guardians have to sign consent forms for their children to be vaccinated and protected. Last year, more than 111 000 girls received the life-saving vaccine.”
Importance of the HPV vaccine:
