The South African Paediatric Association (Sapa) is concerned about the overwhelmingly negative response to the administration of the human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccinations to Grade 4 and 5 girls across Gauteng schools.
The association, which represents paediatricians in South Africa, said it indeed endorses the use of the HPV vaccine, including its routine provision, to nine- and 10-year old schoolgirls in South Africa.
Gary Reubenson, a paediatrician from the association, said that the response to a Northcliff Melville Times article that reminded parents about the campaign was concerning, as many parents said they would not allow the vaccination to be administered.
READ: HPV vaccinations continue across Gauteng
He said Sapa recognises that cancer of the cervix, as well as other HPV associated diseases, are important causes of death and suffering in South Africa.
“We support all reasonable evidence-based efforts to prevent these diseases. Vaccines are one such option. For this reason, Sapa fully endorses the use of the HPV vaccine and its routine provision to eligible learners,” he said.
According to the association, the HPV vaccine has been administered to hundreds of thousands of children and adults globally, is highly effective and well tolerated.
“As with any other medical intervention, adverse consequences are possible and important to recognise. The most common side effects of the HPV vaccine are usually mild, such as a sore arm. Like all vaccines, the HPV vaccine is monitored on an ongoing basis to make sure it remains safe and effective.”
Reubenson said that to date, there is no reason to be concerned about any particularly serious or longstanding untoward effects following administration of the vaccine. “Accordingly we continue to support the widespread use of HPV vaccines, and encourage its administration as its benefits substantially outweigh any potential adverse effects.”
If vaccine recipients experience any possible adverse consequences following administration of the vaccine, it should be reported to their healthcare workers to be investigated. “Healthcare workers encountering such cases should report them to their local EPI coordinator,” he said.
It should also be reported as an Adverse Drug Reaction, by filling in the form here: www.mccza.com/Publications/DownloadDoc/24
Meanwhile, the Gauteng Health Department is pleading for cooperation from parents, guardians and caregivers during the current vaccination campaign in public schools. The second round of the HPV national vaccination campaign is currently underway in the province.
What is HPV?
Human papilloma virus is a common virus that infects people and could eventually cause cervical cancer. There are over 200 types of HPV viruses and research has shown that HPV types 16 and 18 account for 70 per cent of cervical cancer cases. The HPV vaccine is said to be safe and effective in preventing the HPV 16 and 18 strains of the virus.
What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer affects the lower part of the womb, which is called the cervix. Cancer develops when abnormal cells in the human body start to grow very quickly and cannot be controlled by normal body processes. Over time, the normal cells are then replaced by cancer cells. Without early diagnoses and treatment, the effects can be fatal.
Source: The Gauteng Department of Health
