Protecting the Classic City

A Public Health Roadmap for Clarke County

The Current Landscape

Clarke County shows strong resilience with a Kindergarten Up-To-Date rate of 93.5%, nearing the 95% community immunity threshold. Unlike many neighboring counties, religious exemptions remain low at 2.94%. However, consistent monitoring is required to maintain these levels, particularly in toddler coverage for DTaP (87.1%).

Measles Risk by Zip Code
0% Kindergarten Rate
Target: 95% (Near Goal)
0% Religious Exemptions
Maintaining Stability
0% Toddler MMR Rate
Strong Early Start
0% Toddler DTaP Rate
Area for Improvement
0% Childcare Certificates
Kids in Care System

Strategic Recommendations

1. Protecting Community Immunity

With a 93.5% rate, Clarke is close to the finish line. We must focus on the 3.56% who are not up-to-date due to non-exempt reasons.

Access
Expand clinic hours during back-to-school season to assist families with non-medical barriers.
2. Strengthening Toddler DTaP

Toddler DTaP rates (87.1%) lag behind MMR. Ensuring the full 4-dose series is completed is vital for whooping cough prevention.

Process
Implement automated reminder systems for the 4th DTaP dose, often missed between 15-18 months.
3. Childcare Provider Support

With 28.5% of children in the childcare system, these centers are our first line of defense.

Outreach
Provide simplified immunization reporting toolkits to local Athens-Clarke childcare directors.
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