Nearly 37 000 Western Cape Girls Protected by HPV Vaccine in First Half of 2026

Nearly 37 000 Grade 5 girls across Western Cape public and special schools received the Human Papillomavirus vaccine during the first six months of 2026, according to an official announcement from the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness on 26 July 2026. The vaccine protects against the virus responsible for nearly all cases of cervical cancer, one of the leading causes of cancer death among South African women.

Western Cape Minister of Health and Wellness Mireille Wenger urged parents and caregivers of the remaining 14 000 eligible girls who have not yet been vaccinated to sign and return consent forms sent home from schools. "With one signed consent form, you can give her access to a free vaccine that can help prevent a cancer that could threaten her life many years from now," said Wenger.

The HPV vaccine has been proven globally to drastically reduce the likelihood of developing cervical cancer later in life. South Africa's national goal, aligned with the World Health Organization's elimination strategy, is to ensure 90 percent of girls are fully vaccinated by age 15.

What you need to know

• The vaccine is offered free of charge through the school health programme.
• Eligible girls are Grade 5 learners aged 9 years and older.
• Written parental consent is required for girls under 12. Girls aged 12 and older may provide their own consent.

What you can do

Check your daughter's school bag for the consent form, complete and return it promptly. If you have not received a form, contact your child's school or local clinic.