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Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, the Gauteng MEC for health and wellness, has issued an appeal to parents, caregivers and legal guardians, urging them to sign consent forms for vaccinating young girls against cervical cancer with the HPV vaccine.
Cervical cancer ranks as the second most common cause of cancer deaths among South African women, particularly affecting adolescents and those aged 15 to 44, according to the United Nations Children's Fund (Unicef).
Over 70% of cervical cancer cases stem from a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection transmitted sexually.
Unicef highlighted that HPV infection significantly elevated the risk of developing cervical cancer later in life, emphasising the importance of the HPV vaccine for current and future protection.
READ: Gauteng cancer patients in R784 million treatment deal dilemma
With more than 5 000 new cases reported annually, the Gauteng department of health emphasised the urgency of vaccinating girls aged nine to 15 before they become sexually active to ensure long-term protection.
The department is currently executing the first round of the HPV vaccination campaign in all public primary and special schools in Gauteng, targeting Grade 5 girls aged nine and above.
The Cervarix HPV vaccine, a single-dose solution, proves highly safe and effective against HPV strains 16 and 18.
Nkomo-Ralehoko said:
Unicef's State of the Children report showed that vaccine confidence declined in South Africa. The report shows that the perception of the importance of vaccines for children declined by 29.9% in the country after the start of the pandemic, amid the largest backslide in childhood immunisation in 30 years.
The report called for urgent action to identify and reach all children, especially those who missed vaccinations during the pandemic, strengthen demand for vaccines, prioritise funding for immunisation services and primary health care and build resilient health systems.
The department earlier this month sounded an alarm on the surge in sexually transmitted infections (STIs), urging individuals to prioritise safe sexual practices.
Data from public health facilities in Gauteng revealed that 167 109 males were treated for male urethritis syndrome (MUS) between April and December.
MUS symptoms include penile discharge and painful urination, with potential complications if left untreated.
To address this concerning trend, the department implemented prevention interventions, including the consistent use of free male and female condoms available in health facilities.
READ: Increase in STI cases: 'I have slept with more than six girls this month alone'
High MUS-reported cases are attributed to behavioural factors, such as non-use of condoms, engagement in multiple sexual partnerships, inconsistent condom usage, substance abuse and cultural norms.
Nkomo-Ralehoko urged women to initiate early antenatal care for thorough screening and timely treatment of any identified STIs.
