The Path to Protection

Strategic Health Roadmap for Edgefield County, SC

The Current Landscape

Edgefield County is currently facing a slight softening of its community immunity shield. Since the 2021-2022 period, student immunization rates have dipped from a safe 96.6% to 94.9%, bringing the community just below the 95% threshold required to prevent outbreaks. This trend is mirrored by religious exemptions, which have more than quadrupled from 0.7% to 3.0%. With 3 VFC providers serving the county, we must prioritize outreach and access to reverse this trend and safeguard our schools.

0% ▼ Immunization Rate
Was 96.6% (21-22)
0% ▲ Religious Exemptions
Was 0.7% (21-22)
0 VFC Providers
Local Access Points

Strategic Recommendations

1. Returning to the Safety Standard

Edgefield is only 0.1% away from the gold standard. Returning to the 95% threshold is the most immediate priority for student safety.

Urgency
Identify specific clusters of missing records within county schools to provide targeted medical outreach for "not up-to-date" students.
2. Respectful Dialogue

The sharp increase in exemptions suggests emerging hesitancy. We must address concerns through transparent, community-led conversations.

Engagement
Partner with Johnston and Edgefield faith leaders to host Q&A sessions on the communal benefit of childhood protection.
3. Supporting VFC Providers

With only 3 VFC providers, access is concentrated. We must ensure every parent knows how to reach these cost-free services.

Access
Coordinate with school registration offices to include VFC provider maps and hours in every enrollment packet.
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