Reversing the Trend

Strategic Health Roadmap for Cherokee County, SC

The Current Landscape

Cherokee County is at a critical turning point in public health. Over the last two years, our student immunization rate has slipped from a safe 95.2% down to 93.0%, moving the community below the threshold for herd immunity. This decline mirrors a sharp rise in religious exemptions, which have more than doubled from 1.5% to 3.5%. With 7 VFC providers serving the county, we must act now to reinforce our network and restore the protective shield for our children.

0% ▼ Immunization Rate
Was 95.2% (21-22)
0% ▲ Religious Exemptions
Was 1.5% (21-22)
0 VFC Providers
Local Access Network

Strategic Recommendations

1. Halting the Decline

The shift from 95% to 93% indicates that community protection is weakening. We must prioritize returning to the 95% safety standard.

Education
Launch community education campaigns to address vaccine hesitancy and misconceptions.
2. Engaging New Perspectives

With religious exemptions doubling, we must address local concerns through dialogue rather than just data.

Outreach
Partner with faith leaders to foster open conversations about public health.
3. Supporting VFC Providers

Our 7 VFC providers are the county's front line. Ensuring their visibility is key to closing the access gap.

Access
Share VFC Provider List and Map with schools and community-based partners.
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.
Turn data into action—connect with your lawmakers and help shape policies that protect your community.
Contact State Elected Officials Contact School Board Officials