Africa-Press – South-Africa. The Department of Health is urging parents to sign consent forms to allow their children to receive vaccinations protecting them from the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
HPV is a group of viruses that cause infections and irritations on the surface of the skin.
The Health Department is launching its annual HPV vaccination drive on Monday, targeting schools across the country.
Spokesperson Foster Mohale said the vaccination will protect girls aged 9 years and older from developing cervical cancer later in life.
“Over 5,700 cases of cervical cancer are reported each year in the country, while more than 3,000 women die from cervical cancer-related complications. This means unvaccinated girls and women living with HIV are at a higher risk of serious health complications if develop cervical cancer later in life, compared to the general population.”
He’s asked parents to allow their children to receive school-based HPV vaccinations.
“The success of the campaign to protect girls from this preventable, yet deadly, disease hinges on stronger collaboration among all stakeholders, particularly parents and caregivers, who are required to complete the vaccination consent forms issued by schools to eligible girl learners.”
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