The Exemption Challenge

A Strategic Roadmap for Cherokee County Public Health

The Current Landscape

Cherokee County tells a story of Strong Start, Late Drop. While our toddler immunization rates are commendable—with 93.5% of toddlers receiving their MMR—protection levels fall significantly by school entry. The Kindergarten Up-To-Date rate sits at 83.81%, well below the 95% target, driven largely by a high Religious Exemption rate of 12.67%.

Measles Risk by Zip Code
0% Kindergarten Rate
Target: 95% (Below Goal)
0% Religious Exemptions
High Priority Concern
0% Toddler MMR Rate
Strong Early Protection
0% Toddler DTaP Rate
Solid Coverage (19-35 Mos)
0% Childcare Certificates
Kids in Care System

Strategic Recommendations

1. Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy

With a 12.67% exemption rate, logistic solutions alone won't suffice. We must address the root causes of hesitancy.

Education
Launch targeted info campaigns addressing specific local concerns about school-entry vaccines.
Engagement
Partner with trusted community leaders to facilitate open dialogue rather than mandates alone.
2. Closing the School-Entry Gap

Toddlers are 93% vaccinated, but Kindergartners are only 83%. We need to stop this drop-off between ages 4 and 6.

Process
Implement "Pre-K Checks" to identify missing boosters a full year before kindergarten registration.
3. Sustaining Early Success

Our toddler numbers are a strength. We must support the providers achieving these 90%+ rates.

Support
Recognize and reward pediatric practices that maintain high toddler coverage to prevent burnout.
4. Driving Policy Change

Sustainable improvement requires a supportive policy environment that prioritizes student health.

Advocacy
Provide policy analysis on vaccine requirements and encourage advocacy.
Contact State Elected Officials Contact School Board Officials